Local History and Genealogyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?blogid=2186
2016-12-09T10:32:37.8716493Zen-US

Irish Genealogyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032401938&blogid=2186
Recently I was given the opportunity to speak to the Irish American Club of Kalamazoo about Irish genealogy. As I prepared for the talk, I was somewhat surprised by what I found. I knew that we were well set with material on this topic, but I was pleased to discover that we had nearly 100 titles in the history room co]]>Beth T2016-11-29T14:41:38ZRecently I was given the opportunity to speak to the Irish American Club of Kalamazoo about Irish genealogy. As I prepared for the talk, I was somewhat surprised by what I found. I knew that we were well set with material on this topic, but I was pleased to discover that we had nearly 100 titles in the history room collection related to Irish genealogy. Among these are books that generally instruct genealogists on researching Irish ancestors, both in the US and in Ireland, like the new book Genealogist's Handbook for Irish Research by Marie E. Daly.

Many books of early records can be found in the history room. My favorite set in this category is the Ordnance Survey Memoirs of Ireland which contains detailed information about the landscape, buildings, and people of the province of Ulster just prior to the Great Famine.

I may be biased, but with so many excellent books, I don’t think there is a better place in our area for researching your Irish heritage.

]]>Organize Your Genealogyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032401760&blogid=2186
Engaging in genealogical research, in my opinion, is one of the best leisure pursuits you can find. It is endlessly interesting, challenging, and rewarding. However, it’s not easy and one thing that complicates it is the tremendous amount of information you need to sift through to find the answers you seek. Staying org]]>Beth T2016-10-31T15:24:03ZOrganize Your Genealogy: Strategies and Solutions for Every Researcher by Drew Smith is an important resource for genealogists of all levels. Smith begins with tips for organizing yourself and your work space, but quickly moves on to ideas for preserving and sorting your notes, planning your research process, optimizing your mail sorting system, and the vital topics of organizing your online and in-person research. The book is full of sample check lists and forms to help you stay on track and ordered. Check out this book because when it comes to genealogy you can’t be too organized!]]>Masons in Michiganhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032401590&blogid=2186
Several months ago I attended a meeting in Grand Rapids and learned something surprising – Michigan has its own Masonic Museum. I met the director, Dirk Hughes, and was amazed to find out that not only do they have wonderful artifacts on display, but they also have thousands of books and photos. But the thing I was mo]]>Beth T2016-09-30T09:24:23ZSeveral months ago I attended a meeting in Grand Rapids and learned something surprising – Michigan has its own Masonic Museum. I met the director, Dirk Hughes, and was amazed to find out that not only do they have wonderful artifacts on display, but they also have thousands of books and photos. But the thing I was most excited to learn was that they hold the historical records for many of the Masonic lodges in Michigan. Think of what wonderful information a genealogist might be able to get about their ancestor who was a Mason in Michigan! I was very anxious to learn more about the history of Masons in Michigan and the museum so I invited Dirk to do a program for us. He will present Freemasonry: Its Global Ideas and Local Influence at the central library October 19, 7 pm. Whether you are a genealogist or a local history enthusiast, this program is sure to entertain and inform.]]>House of Davidhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032401450&blogid=2186
For many years I have been fascinated by the Israelite House of David in Benton Harbor. Its history as a religious colony is captivating by itself, but when you also consider the ways the group interacted with the community through their amusement park, baseball teams, and musical bands the story is really irresistibl]]>Beth T2016-09-10T13:30:50ZFor many years I have been fascinated by the Israelite House of David in Benton Harbor. Its history as a religious colony is captivating by itself, but when you also consider the ways the group interacted with the community through their amusement park, baseball teams, and musical bands the story is really irresistible. We are fortunate to have files of material on the House of David in the history room as well as a number of books including: The Righteous Remnant by Robert S. Fogarty, Brother Benjamin by Clare Adkin and Millennial Visions and Earthly Pursuits by Robert C. Myers.

It’s easy to lose a couple of hours poring through these materials and I suggest that you do, but this fall we’re also offering another way to learn about the House of David - with two programs. David Kohrman, archivist for the colony, will present The History of the House of David on Thursday, September 29. This is sure to be a wonderful program and will include rare photographs from the colony’s private archive! Then we’ll take a closer look at the colony’s music industry on Wednesday, October 26 when Tom Meldrim and Keith Howard will share The Israelite House of David – Musical Traditions. Tom and Keith are both passionate about music history and have spent years gathering information on the musical traditions of the House of David, so you won’t want to miss this.

Both programs begin at 7 pm.

]]>Michigan True Crimehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032401163&blogid=2186
Over the years, I have noticed that local and Michigan history books often appear in waves of particular subjects. Some years ago lighthouses were popular and book after book documenting Great Lakes lighthouses and their keepers became available. The next trend was for shipwreck books . New books began to be publis]]>Beth T2016-07-27T13:50:00ZOver the years, I have noticed that local and Michigan history books often appear in waves of particular subjects. Some years ago lighthouses were popular and book after book documenting Great Lakes lighthouses and their keepers became available. The next trend was for shipwreck books. New books began to be published about the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, as well as books about ship disasters that few had ever heard of before. Lately I’ve noticed a new trend, every bit as tragic as shipwrecks, but also gripping. In recent months a number of books about horrible crimes, both solved and unsolved, have hit the shelves.

People who have lived in the Kalamazoo area for a long time will probably remember the murders of Maggie Hume in the early 80s and Rebecca Binkowski in the 90s. Their stories are told in The Murder of Maggie Hume: Cold Case in Battle Creek by Blaine Pardoe and Victoria Hester and Being with Becky by Lisa Binkowski, Becky’s sister. Further back in Kalamazoo’s history is the murder of Jeannie Singleton. One Silent Voice: The Jeannie Singleton Story by Nicole and Robert DuShane chronicles the case of this 8-year-old Kalamazoo girl who was murdered in 1955, and the unsuccessful search for her killer. Blood on the Mitten by Tom Carr tells of crimes in Michigan dating from the 1700s to 2016.

This type of book isn’t for everyone. However crimes like this have touched our community so deeply and we followed them day after day in the local news, so it is only natural to want to know more.

]]>Local History Collectionhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400973&blogid=2186
With so many wonderful items in the library’s local history collection it is very difficult to make everything as obvious on the website as we would like, but the information you need is right there if you know where to look. Links to details about our books , magazines , newspapers , microfilm , and files can a]]>Beth T2016-06-30T11:53:05ZWith so many wonderful items in the library’s local history collection it is very difficult to make everything as obvious on the website as we would like, but the information you need is right there if you know where to look. Links to details about our books, magazines, newspapers, microfilm, and files can all be found on the Local History Collection page (links from the navigation on the right side of each local history page).

]]>Yearbookshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400702&blogid=2186
Working at the local history desk I am often reminded how wonderful it is to have a large local school yearbook collection . They are certainly among the most popular items in the history room – and is it any wonder? Who doesn’t enjoy looking at their old yearbooks? But the funny thing is, it doesn’t have to be you]]>Beth T2016-05-17T16:25:43ZWorking at the local history desk I am often reminded how wonderful it is to have a large local school yearbook collection. They are certainly among the most popular items in the history room – and is it any wonder? Who doesn’t enjoy looking at their old yearbooks? But the funny thing is, it doesn’t have to be your own yearbook to get enjoyment from it. Any yearbook from the time period you were in school has the ability to transport you back to that time, even if you don’t know any of the people in it. Hair, clothing, sports uniforms, furniture, and even fonts and graphics look familiar.

Apart from the nostalgic value, yearbooks are an important resource for genealogists. So often, yearbooks provide the only photos of our ancestors as young adults. They also yield important clues to their personality and interests.

Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of people over the years, our yearbook collection is impressive – but we always have room for more! We are particularly interested in growing our holdings of some of the smaller schools in the county, including the parochial schools. If you have an old yearbook you no longer need, we would gratefully accept it and make it accessible for our patrons – now and for years to come.

]]>Kalamazoo County Plat Bookshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400605&blogid=2186
Plat books are a wonderful way to learn about the history of a piece of property. They are published for each county, and in them you can see townships divided into parcels and labeled with the property owner’s name. In the history room we have the most recent plat books for most of the counties in Michigan, and all]]>Beth T2016-05-03T15:00:55ZPlat books are a wonderful way to learn about the history of a piece of property. They are published for each county, and in them you can see townships divided into parcels and labeled with the property owner’s name. In the history room we have the most recent plat books for most of the counties in Michigan, and all of them for Kalamazoo County. Not surprisingly, it can be a number of years between new plat books for a county. Consequently we get unusually excited when we receive a new one for Kalamazoo, as we have recently. While a single plat book for a county is a useful thing to have, a collection of them that spans 150 years is a real treasure.

If you are interested in gathering information about a rural property in Kalamazoo County, stop in and take a look at our plat book collection - and for even more tips on house and property research come to Researching Your House History in the history room at 7 pm on May 12.

]]>New Collection of School Photoshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400494&blogid=2186
Local History has recently posted a collection of 1960s to early 1970s class photographs from two extinct Kalamazoo elementary schools; Roosevelt School, built in 1909 and razed in 1988, and Hillcrest Elementary, built in 1926 by the Kalamazoo public schools system and closed in the early 1970s for lack of enrollmen]]>TamaraS2016-04-15T11:45:17ZLocal History has recently posted a collection of 1960s to early 1970s class photographs from two extinct Kalamazoo elementary schools; Roosevelt School, built in 1909 and razed in 1988, and Hillcrest Elementary, built in 1926 by the Kalamazoo public schools system and closed in the early 1970s for lack of enrollment, then purchased by the private Kazoo School in 1985, which flourishes today. The albums chronicle staff and teachers as well as students. View the collection »

Roosevelt School, circ. 1920

photo: Kalamazoo Public Library

At the risk of permanently dating myself, I include my school photo from the same era, upon which my co-workers have remarked, “Gee some people never change…” Notice the bangs, the glasses, the smile that suggests trepidation in front of the camera and discomfort in my own skin. In all fairness, it may be the hairstyles that primarily do us a disservice, chopped with an attempt to make a straight line across the forehead in bangs that either stick out or are plastered down mercilessly and unsuccessfully with VO5.

Hillcrest Elementary School, circ. 1940

photo: Kalamazoo Public Library

It seems that us kids of the fifties were burdened by a whole catalog of our parents’ expectations to be (or become) as quickly as possible little adults, and these photographs capture us with clothing and hairstyles that seem to come in direct conflict with our burgeoning personalities. Note particularly the cat-eyed glasses on the girls and the goofy bow ties on the boys, neither of which sit level by the time of the photo.

There are the exceptions: the kids who look like little successes right from the start; girls completely at ease with peter-pan collars, headbands, and brick-a-brack, and boys who sport the nifty argyle cardigan and the button down shirt without a hitch. Still, we’re all smiling through it in a way that is at once charming and heartbreaking. The photos freeze us in a moment of vulnerability we’ll never possess in the same way again--each kid a sweet compilation of innocent personality facing the constraints and demands of growing up. Some, whose expressions reveal early experience with life’s larger challenges, one wants to just scoop up and take home.

At the very least, these images demand that we embrace our inner dweebiness with self-forgiveness, precisely because they capture us when all our good intentions and promise for the future are still intact. As Larry Paulsen, alumni of Roosevelt remembers, “I played coronet and got as high as 2nd chair in 8th grade. When Henry Cummings graduated, first chair could have been mine. However, Jim Shoemaker transferred in from another school, and he claimed first chair. He later made a career playing his horn. Mr. Tuller, our band director told me what I lacked in tone quality I made up for in decibels.” How could we not love that kid, or more importantly, the adult he has become? We hope you recognize yourself, or others that you know in these photos and join in the Flickr conversation about them.

If you have a Kalamazoo Elementary School photo album from the past that you would be willing to share, please consider loaning it to KPL Local History to scan for our website. Please contact the Local History Room or phone 269-553-7842

Roosevelt Elementary School, Grade 1, 1966-1967

photo: Kalamazoo Public Library

]]>Sing a Song of Long Agohttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400298&blogid=2186
“Sing a song of long ago When things were green and movin’ slow And people’d stop to say hello Or they'd say hi to you
Would you like to come over for tea with the missus and me? It’s a real nice way to spend the day in Dayton, Ohio On a lazy Sunday afternoon in 1903”
~ “Dayton Ohio, 1903” by Randy Newman
]]>TamaraS2016-03-24T08:33:08Z

“Sing a song of long agoWhen things were green and movin’ slowAnd people’d stop to say helloOr they'd say hi to you
Would you like to come over for teawith the missus and me?It’s a real nice wayto spend the dayin Dayton, OhioOn a lazy Sunday afternoon in 1903”

~ “Dayton Ohio, 1903” by Randy Newman

Beth Timmerman’s introduction of KPL’s new place on the Internet Archive reminded me of the way this Randy Newman song kept popping into my head as I scanned these historic pamphlets and short books for the Archive. His simple chords and lazy, deliberate beat were the perfect soundscape for not only the architecture, industries, entertainments, and transportation that these tracts describe, but the spirit of the times.

Pamphlets in the collection promote the city and its amenities as well as Kalamazoo’s important products. Orvill Gibson’s Mandolins and Guitars are introduced via the Prayer of the Non-conformist: “Hold thou the ‘non-conformist’ to his love of tonal diminutiveness lest the fire and passion of his musical soul be aroused to cover the full-grown tone of the ‘Gibson,’ for, behold, the world is surcharged with its praises.” Sleds and carriages are illustrated with charming descriptions, and wildly colorful and exotic Lodge Fellow’s costumes and paraphernalia are presented in terrific color drawings.

These volumes invite one to enter into an era where everything from fashions to silos are manufactured by artisans with the use of simple machinery. They describe a world where businesses are largely owned and operated by families, local politicians reside in splendor both at home and in the workplace, transportation between cities relied on horses or steam driven trains, where the churches formed the hub of social and spiritual unity, and race tracks and the use of tobacco and alcohol drew the bottom line of Iniquity. Photographs of schools and descriptions of their functions are presented in the context of a city of
“fine buildings, home-like residences” and “pretty parks and gardens” and the day to day expenditures of local farming are recorded by hand in a farmer’s notebook.
Biographies of important persons and their accomplishments and a complete directory of Kalamazoo African American citizens document a thriving black community.

The Archive offers us access to a lively historic Kalamazoo metropolis filled with venues for entertainment and amusement including Bronson Park, theaters, restaurants and hotels, and popular saloons, as well as glimpses into the interior workings of all kinds of storefronts and manufacturing establishments. Just as these tracts lull one into the notion that life was altogether more pleasant and sweet in the past, a place where “things were green and movin' slow and people stopped to say hello,” the site also provides photos of the Michigan State Asylum reminding us that mental illness is not new, and tracts on disease and mortality which graphically depict the health perils and abbreviated life expectancy of the times that must temper our romantic view of these bygone days.

Still, while my hands were on these materials, many of which were crumbling and falling apart, it was sad and lovely to read of a Kalamazoo with “Paved streets lighted by electricity, with the best system of sewage, coursing underneath, while the coolest and clearest of spring water pours from a thousand hydrants and breaks into the spray of fountains; electric cars and telephones; stores and markets, shops and bazaars….[and with] beauty her own citizens daily enjoy…the wide and beautiful streets, bordered by green lawns and elegant homes, under the noble native oaks and the blue summer skies….It is in the deep, rich green of June, or the Golden of October, when the leaves are taking on their brilliant hues….that this wonderful city is seen in her glory and when she justifies all the seeming extravagance of her eulogists” (Artwork of Kalamazoo, 1894).

One cannot leave the collection of Internet Archive books and pamphlets packed as they are with facts, details, wonderful photographs, and illustrations without a sigh and the melancholy of Randy Newman’s song almost lingering in the air, having indulged for a little while “a real nice way to spend the day on a lazy Sunday afternoon in nineteen hundred and three” in Kalamazoo.

]]>KPL on Archive.orghttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400239&blogid=2186
Last summer we introduced the Local History Online page to provide a link to all of the wonderful digital content the library has made available. Since then we’ve continued to digitize material, and at our Archive.org site alone, we now have 58 separate books, booklets and pamphlets. They cover a multitude of topics]]>Beth T2016-03-17T10:55:02ZLast summer we introduced the Local History Online page to provide a link to all of the wonderful digital content the library has made available. Since then we’ve continued to digitize material, and at our Archive.org site alone, we now have 58 separate books, booklets and pamphlets. They cover a multitude of topics, from an 80 page 1918 promotional tract on Gull Lake to an 1894 publication on Kalamazoo churches.

This is just a sampling of the wonderful items you can find at our Archive.org site, and since we continue to add new things all the time, you’ll want to check back regularly!

]]>Orphan Train Riders in Michiganhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032400180&blogid=2186
Keith_12016-03-07T12:40:49ZThis year’s Reading Together programming series sheds light on a rather little known phenomenon that occurred during the late 19th and early 20th centuries — the Orphan Trains. Beginning in 1854, orphan children from East Coast cities like New York and Boston were sent by rail into the Midwest for adoption, many of which ended up in Michigan. The lucky ones found welcoming and nurturing new families at the end of the journey. But without child labor laws in place, many others were subjected to hard labor on farms and in factories.

Al and Dave Eicher of Program Source International will present The Orphan Train in Michigan at Central Library on Thursday, March 10, at 7 pm. The Eichers produced a video documentary about the Orphan Trains in Michigan, and lecture regularly on the topic.

Research shows that more than 250,000 children were shipped out between 1854 and 1927. In all, it’s estimated that approximately 12,500 children between the ages 3 and 16 were relocated to some 44 Michigan towns. The “Baby Trains” rolled westward along the MCRR with stops in Ypsilanti, Dexter, Chelsea, Grass Lake, Jackson, Adrian, Marshall, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, and Dowagiac; or northward to towns like Fenton, Linden, Holly and Oxford.

According to The Herald Palladium (St. Joseph - Benton Harbor, MI), “Al Eicher’s grandmother, her sister and 3-year-old brother were among those children sent to new homes in the Midwest. Two families took his grandmother and her sister, and a family in Ohio chose the brother. Less than 30 percent of the children were adopted... Boys usually ended up as farmhands, and girls were used as domestic servants.”

Many dozens of Kalamazoo women have left their own indelible marks on our community’s history and culture over the years. Much has been written about the likes of civic leader and scholar Caroline Bartlett Crane, and educator and early feminist Lucinda Hinsdale Stone. But what about all the others who we perhaps don’t hear so much about?

What about Flora Roberts, Kalamazoo’s first formally trained librarian? You won’t find her name in the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame, but her vision provided information and services through three decades, two world wars, and one Great Depression “to meet needs [the community] may not even have known they had.” Or how about Anna Jannasch-Shortt, the somewhat eccentric and highly driven music instructor whose Musical Institute trained many of Kalamazoo’s leading 19th- and early 20th- century musicians? Or how about Cynthia Wendover Van Deusen? Her efforts not only helped give Kalamazoo its first public library building, but she contributed significantly to the building of Bronson Methodist Hospital and provided constant and sustainable help for Kalamazoo’s less fortunate. And the list goes on.

On Thursday, February 25, WMU’s regional history curator Lynn Houghton will present “Women in Kalamazoo: Another Perspective,” where she plans to discuss those women who have made significant contributions to the Kalamazoo community, but are perhaps not so well known. Lynn will tell the stories of Madam Jannasch-Shortt, of Cynthia Wendover Van Deusen and Flora Roberts, of landscape architect Maxson McCrea, and community activist and politician Cornelia Robinson, among others. Join us for what will undoubtedly be an interesting and informative presentation.

]]>The Archaeology of American Cemeteries and Gravemarkershttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032399896&blogid=2186
At the risk of being accused overly morbid, I’m going to highlight a book about cemeteries for the second time in a year. The last one was The Art of Memory: Historic Cemeteries of Grand Rapids, Michigan a nd I loved it for its amazing photos that captured the beauty and artistry that I enjoy in cemeteries. This ti]]>Beth T2016-01-30T14:45:10ZAt the risk of being accused overly morbid, I’m going to highlight a book about cemeteries for the second time in a year. The last one was The Art of Memory: Historic Cemeteries of Grand Rapids, Michigan and I loved it for its amazing photos that captured the beauty and artistry that I enjoy in cemeteries. This time I’m looking at The Archaeology of American Cemeteries and Gravemarkers by Sherene Baugher and Richard F. Veit – a book that takes a very different approach to the examination of cemeteries, but no less fascinating!

As the title suggests, Baugher and Veit look at cemeteries from an archaeologist’s perspective. They include information and examples from excavations, but also strive to explain the evolution of American cemeteries and the many factors that influenced it. Of particular interest is the analysis of burial practices of various ethnic groups. An example of this was a study they cited of some 19th century Chinese cemeteries in California. When compared to European American sections of the same cemeteries, which were arranged carefully in rows, the Chinese graves appeared to be very haphazardly placed. Researchers determined that in reality the graves were very precisely placed using feng shui principles, following the contours of the land and the water flow.

The Archaeology of American Cemeteries and Gravemarkers is not light reading, but if you’re looking for a well-researched, scholarly look at American burial practices, you won’t want to miss this book. There is also a local connection – WMU Professor of Anthropology, Michael Nassaney, wrote the foreword.

]]>Midwest Foraginghttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032399729&blogid=2186
It may surprise you to learn that some of the most interesting items in the local history collection aren’t about history at all. We have many things that would be useful if you were researching different aspects of our local history, but when taken on their own would never be considered a “history book.” A recent ad]]>Beth T2016-01-08T11:29:49Zlocal history collection aren’t about history at all. We have many things that would be useful if you were researching different aspects of our local history, but when taken on their own would never be considered a “history book.” A recent addition, Midwest Foraging by Lisa M. Rose, is just such a book. It is an A-Z guide to 115 wild edibles that can be found in our area. Included in the list are things you would expect like chestnuts, black walnuts, and various wild berries - but did you know you can eat burdocks, nettles and spruce needles? Rose takes the mystery out of foraging by including an excellent color photo as well as everything you need to know to identify, gather and eat each plant. I don’t know if my desire to forage will ever go much beyond morel mushrooms, but if it should Midwest Foraging will be the first thing I consult.]]>The Taste and Sound of Local Historyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032399439&blogid=2186
History can be viewed in so many different ways - it’s not all about big events and famous people. In fact, some of my favorite history books look at the past through everyday items and activities. We’ve recently received two books that do just that. The first is Midwest Sweet Baking History: Delectable Classics Arou]]>Beth T2015-11-24T15:44:19ZMidwest Sweet Baking History: Delectable Classics Around Lake Michigan by Jenny Lewis. It begins with the Native Americans and the earliest settlers of the region and looks at how sweets evolved through availability of ingredients and the traditions of the people who chose to make our region their home. The baking industry is also explored along with all of the factors that affected it over the years – such as wars and industrialization. For example – did you know that Hostess Twinkies, which got their start in Illinois, were originally made with a banana cream filling? Due to rationing during WWII they switched to vanilla cream and never switched back. In addition to all the fascinating food facts, the book is full of wonderful recipes for sweet treats.

The second book looks at the history of music in the Midwest – Folksongs of Another America: Field Recordings from the Upper Midwest, 1937-1946. Like Midwest Sweet Baking History, this book also uses the various ethnicities and cultures of Midwest residents to explore the musical history of the area. The songs discussed in the book were captured as field recordings by the Library of Congress from 1937 to 1946 in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. Many include the lyrics and, where appropriate, an English translation. And – while it’s interesting to read about the music, it’s even better to listen to it and this collection provides that option. Five CDs of recordings are included, as well as a DVD of color film footage, sound recordings and images all from Alan Lomax’s work in Michigan. So if you come to the local history room to explore this book, be sure to bring your headphones so you can enjoy the accompanying CDs and DVD. (If you enjoy authentic folk music be sure to check out the other items in KPL’s AV and non-fiction collections related to Alan Lomax.)]]>Mail Order Homeshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032399253&blogid=2186
Like so many other folks, I am fascinated by the kit and catalog houses that were popular in the first half of the twentieth century. I love to look through the reprint of the 1926 Sears, Roebuck House Catalog – Small Houses of the Twenties - that we have in the history room , and imagine what it was like for peop]]>Beth T2015-10-29T14:23:33ZSmall Houses of the Twenties - that we have in the history room, and imagine what it was like for people to shop for their house the way they did a new pair of pants or a set of mixing bowls

I know these houses still exist in neighborhoods all over the country, and it isn’t unusual for people visiting the history room to tell us that they suspect their home was a kit house, but I doubt I could identify any with certainty. That’s why I am so excited about our upcoming program – Mail Order Homes: The Catalog and Kit Homes of Michigan on November 2. Andrew and Wendy Mutch have spent years researching and identifying kit homes all around Michigan and beyond. They will take us on a virtual tour of kit homes and even give us tips for identifying them. So join us here at the Central library at 7 pm on Monday and bring your questions. Andrew and Wendy are sure to impress you not only with their knowledge of kit homes, but also with their great passion for this distinctive form of architecture.]]>Genealogy and the Lawhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032399058&blogid=2186
Those of us who enjoy genealogical research know that it is often a complicated business. That is very likely what we love about it. We’re always looking for a little more information to lead us back another generation or to explain something that happened in our family long before we were born, and we don’t mind diggi]]>Beth T2015-09-30T15:50:13ZGenealogy and the Law: A Guide to Legal Sources for the Family Historian is just that kind of book. It is a tool for finding and understanding the laws that governed our ancestors.

After reading Genealogy and the Law, I was inspired to see if the Michigan laws in 1870 could tell me anything about the circumstances related to an ancestor’s divorce I had recently discovered. The divorce record stated that my ancestor had filed for divorce on the grounds of desertion, but gave almost no other information. Fortunately for me we have historical Michigan documents, a law library, and fantastic law library staff to help me locate what I was looking for. After consulting Michigan Compiled Laws for 1857 (and Public Acts for the years 1858-1870 to see if there were any changes to the laws during that time) I discovered that in 1870 desertion was one of only a handful of valid grounds for divorce. However, it couldn’t be claimed unless the spouse had been gone for at least two years. So what I had considered to be a marriage of about four years, in reality lasted less than two years. While this wasn’t a major discovery, it did add to my understanding of events in my ancestor’s life. Looking through the early laws of Michigan was fascinating and now that I’ve done it, I know I will tackle them again to enhance my genealogy research.]]>Local History Onlinehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032398913&blogid=2186
Someone recently asked me how I get anything done when we have so many wonderful things to read and enjoy in the history room collection . It is true that it’s easy to get absorbed in the books, photos, maps, files and scrapbooks that make up the collection; but something that is even better is sharing it all with oth]]>Beth T2015-09-02T08:50:28Zhistory room collection. It is true that it’s easy to get absorbed in the books, photos, maps, files and scrapbooks that make up the collection; but something that is even better is sharing it all with others who love local history.

But we know not everyone can come into the history room whenever they have a hankering to indulge their inner history buff, which is why we’ve spent years making KPL’s local history collection accessible from anywhere. This began all the way back in 1997 with digitization of the cataloged photographs. Since then, we have digitized newspapers, photo albums, pamphlets, books, journals, maps, films, and catalogs. We’ve also built up an impressive collection of videos of local history programs that were presented here at KPL.

All of these items have been linked in appropriate places throughout the website, but now they are also accessible from a single page that we call Local History Online: KPL Digital Archives. This is the place to connect to all of our digital offerings and easily keep up on what’s new. So whatever your interest – be it photos taken at the Michigan Asylum for the Insane in the early 20th century, Kalamazoo newspapers from more than a century ago, or a Henderson-Ames catalog of regalia for Odd Fellow lodges – you can start your exploration at Local History Online.]]>How to Archive Family Photoshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032398470&blogid=2186
You know how grateful you are to that long-departed relative when you come across an old photo album that they had carefully and completely organized, dated and captioned? We all want to be that conscientious when we’re documenting our lives with photos, but it’s so much more complicated now. Digital photos are extrem]]>Beth T2015-07-10T08:22:06ZYou know how grateful you are to that long-departed relative when you come across an old photo album that they had carefully and completely organized, dated and captioned? We all want to be that conscientious when we’re documenting our lives with photos, but it’s so much more complicated now. Digital photos are extremely functional but create a whole extra layer of complexity when it comes to organization and identification. For those of us who have struggled with this problem there is a new book, How to Archive Family Photos by Denise May Levenick. In Part 1 of the book, readers learn how to safely store, organize, name, tag, and back-up their digital photo collections. Part 2 details digitizing heirloom photograph collections and Part 3 suggests projects for sharing and enjoying your digital images. Check out How to Archive Family Photos to get the most out of all those pictures you’ve been taking with your phone (and to be the most revered member of your family).

]]>Neighborhood Focus – Westnedge Hillhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032397935&blogid=2186
We are celebrating Historic Preservation Month, May, with a series of programs that highlight elements of the Westnedge Hill Neighborhood. We got an early start on April 30 with a fantastic program on Crane Park by Natalie Patchell. But don’t worry if you missed it – we’ll have it on the website soon.
On]]>Beth T2015-05-01T11:05:29ZWe are celebrating Historic Preservation Month, May, with a series of programs that highlight elements of the Westnedge Hill Neighborhood. We got an early start on April 30 with a fantastic program on Crane Park by Natalie Patchell. But don’t worry if you missed it – we’ll have it on the website soon.

On May 4th we will be learning about a Westnedge Hill gem with a fascinating history – Everyman’s House. Our presenter, Wendy Mutch, is a former owner of the home and will treat us to a lively and fact-filled program. But wait, there’s more! We are thrilled to be partnering with the Kalamazoo Valley Museum to display their model of Everyman’s House at the program! This will be the first time it has been available for public viewing since the history gallery was re-done nearly 5 years ago.

Finally, Lynn Houghton will present the history and architecture of the neighborhood on May 14. Lynn has done many programs for us over the years and they are always excellent, but this happens to be her neighborhood so this might be the best one yet!

Both programs will take place in the VanDeusen Room at 7 pm, so be sure to get there early to get a good seat and have a chance to chat with Westnedge Hill residents and others with an interest in Kalamazoo’s unique neighborhoods.

]]>Do You Recognize This Photo?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032397747&blogid=2186
Not long ago, we received a donation of a photo depicting children and a few adults, presumably taken in front of a school. The donor thought that it was Vine Street School and from the early 1950s. Unfortunately, the building in the photo did not look like any images we have of Vine Street School, or any other Kalama]]>Beth T2015-04-02T12:46:47ZNot long ago, we received a donation of a photo depicting children and a few adults, presumably taken in front of a school. The donor thought that it was Vine Street School and from the early 1950s. Unfortunately, the building in the photo did not look like any images we have of Vine Street School, or any other Kalamazoo school that we have in our photo collection. So - was this even a Kalamazoo photo? The only obvious clue was the name of the photography studio stamped on the back – Central Studio. That did suggest at least the possibility of it being a local photo, since a Central Studio was in business in Kalamazoo from the 1930s until the late 1950s.

This is where local history really gets fun. I consulted with others to see if the building looked familiar to them. No one recognized it, but in talking it out we decided it looked like it could be a church instead of a school. Then the sharp eye of a colleague picked up something carved into a block behind the heads of several women on the left side of the photo. Examination with a magnifying glass determined that it said “Bethany.” Another colleague pulled up a picture of Bethany Reformed Church in Kalamazoo and, sure enough, we had our building.

However, we still have questions. City directory searches do not show Bethany operating a school. Could this be a photo of the Sunday school classes? It seems like a very large group for that. Another possibility that we considered was that these were the students of McKinley School, which stood just a block away, but we have no idea why they would need to use the church for a photo.

Can you help us solve this mystery?

]]>The New HeritageQuesthttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032397550&blogid=2186
If you haven’t logged into HeritageQuest lately, you’re in for a big surprise! The database that KPL and other libraries have been providing for years for genealogical research has gone through a major change. Through a partnership with Ancestry, HeritageQuest is now able to provide more advanced search functionalit]]>Beth T2015-03-05T16:09:32ZIf you haven’t logged into HeritageQuest lately, you’re in for a big surprise! The database that KPL and other libraries have been providing for years for genealogical research has gone through a major change. Through a partnership with Ancestry, HeritageQuest is now able to provide more advanced search functionality (very similar to searching in Ancestry) and increased content.

The U.S. Federal Census 1790-1940 is now complete with an every-name index. There is a new image viewer with improved image resolution as well as simple save and share capabilities. They have also increased their book collection to include thousands of city directories. Research aids full of great information and tips are available – but don’t be surprised when they refer you to searches in Ancestry. One of the wonderful things that HeritageQuest has always had, but you may have overlooked because it was completely buried on their old site, is the Map Guide to the U.S. Federal Censuses, 1790-1920. I love those maps and now they are prominently linked right at the top of the home page. Of course, the best thing about HeritageQuest is something that is exactly the same as it has always been – it is accessible from home by logging in with your library card number!

If you can’t remember how to get to HeritageQuest and the other great databases that KPL provides for genealogical research, just go to the Genealogy Topic Guide and scroll down to the Databases section.

]]>The Art of Memoryhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032397378&blogid=2186
It is no secret that I am particularly fond of cemeteries. Unlike many people, I don’t find them to be sad or spooky places. I love them for their park-like beauty, art, and architecture; and of course their history. After reading The Art of Memory: Historic Cemeteries of Grand Rapids, Michigan , I have to believe ]]>Beth T2015-02-06T14:11:04ZIt is no secret that I am particularly fond of cemeteries. Unlike many people, I don’t find them to be sad or spooky places. I love them for their park-like beauty, art, and architecture; and of course their history. After reading The Art of Memory: Historic Cemeteries of Grand Rapids, Michigan, I have to believe that its author, Thomas R. Dilley, feels the same way. The book is filled with beautiful photos of cemeteries, tombstones and mausoleums throughout Grand Rapids.

Dilley could have stopped there – many authors of cemetery books do - but the photos are just the beginning. The book deals mainly with the garden or park cemeteries of Grand Rapids, which first began to be established in the late nineteenth century. But this development is all put into perspective with an excellent history of burial and burial places going all the way back to the beginning of civilization. It goes on to tell the histories of the specific cemeteries and then further to explain the monuments themselves. For example, popular architectural styles of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries - such as Greek Revival, Romanesque, Egyptian Revival, and Art Deco - are all represented in the tombstones and mausoleums of Grand Rapids, and Dilley explains their popularity and significance.

While the book includes a great deal of interesting Grand Rapids history, the insight provided into the evolution of cemetery design and tombstone architecture and symbolism will give you an understanding and appreciation for cemeteries anywhere in the country. You may find yourself picking up The Art of Memory for the beautiful images, but I guarantee you’ll keep reading for the fascinating details.

]]>Your Genealogy Placehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032397157&blogid=2186
With the holidays behind us, it’s time to get serious about your genealogy research, and the local history room is full of resources to help you do just that! Whether you’re just getting started, or have been at it for years, you can certainly benefit from a trip to the history room. You can’t find a better place to]]>Beth T2015-01-02T14:49:22Zlocal history room is full of resources to help you do just that! Whether you’re just getting started, or have been at it for years, you can certainly benefit from a trip to the history room.

You can’t find a better place to dig up information on your Kalamazoo ancestors than our local information database. It includes more than four decades of full name and subject indexing of the Kalamazoo Gazette and well over 100 years of obituary/death story citations. But that’s just the beginning – the database also includes indexing of local magazines and select Kalamazoo County newspapers, as well as citations for history room files and specific items in books in the history room collection. This includes portraits in many of the high school and college yearbooks.

You don’t need to have Kalamazoo roots to benefit from KPL’s resources, either. We have hundreds of genealogy books, from instructional to vital records to compilations of ship passenger lists. In addition to Michigan, geographically our collection includes research volumes for Indiana and Ohio, New England, and the Mid-Atlantic States. We even have printed volumes for Canadian and European research. When you also consider our genealogy databases - Ancestry Library Edition, America’s Genealogy Bank, Heritage Quest, and American Ancestors – KPL provides access to records from all over the world!

Of course, there are many, many records that will never make it to a printed book or be included in a database, but billions of them have been microfilmed by Family Search. That is why KPL is a Family Search Affiliate Library. For a small fee, reels of microfilm can be borrowed from Family Search and sent here for viewing and printing or scanning with our digital microfilm readers. So what are you waiting for? Come on down to the history room and start researching!]]>Second Chance for Programshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032396680&blogid=2186
If you read our Link newsletter or peruse the website from time to time, you probably know that KPL has hosted many wonderful local history programs in recent years. We’ve covered topics related to architecture , neighborhoods , women’s history , shipwrecks , and even the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair . All the l]]>Beth T2014-10-30T12:44:20ZIf you read our Link newsletter or peruse the website from time to time, you probably know that KPL has hosted many wonderful local history programs in recent years. We’ve covered topics related to architecture, neighborhoods, women’s history, shipwrecks, and even the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. All the local history programs have a Kalamazoo or Michigan focus. What you may not know is that most of these programs are recorded and the videos are made available on our website. Of course, nothing beats being at a program and having the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the presenter, but if you miss one, it’s not too late to enjoy it.

]]>An Idyllic Summer Dayhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032396171&blogid=2186
It’s been a while since we posted an unidentified photo so this one has a bonus – an extra related photo. Both feature what appears to be at least three generations of a family posed in front of a house. One is taken from a distance, making the house fully visible. The house is brick and it is clearly in a rural set]]>Beth T2014-08-15T13:54:51ZIt’s been a while since we posted an unidentified photo so this one has a bonus – an extra related photo. Both feature what appears to be at least three generations of a family posed in front of a house. One is taken from a distance, making the house fully visible. The house is brick and it is clearly in a rural setting. The family of nine adults and four children are spaced out across the photo. It appears to be a warm summer day with leaves fully out on trees and bushes, and windows open on the house. The children are posed with croquet mallets and balls as if they had just interrupted their game to have their photo taken.

The second photo gives a much clearer view of the family. They are tightly spaced in front of a porch on the right side of the house. Several of the women and children are wearing flowers pinned to their clothes. Styles indicate a date in the early 1890s.

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. If you have any idea who this family is, or if you recognize the house, let us know. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy these interesting old photos.

]]>Michigan’s Historic Lighthouseshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032395528&blogid=2186
On Monday evening, May 19, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will present “Michigan Lighthouses: Past and Present,” a trip along Michigan’s shoreline with author Grace Truman at the Oshtemo Branch Library. Truman’s talk includes a slideshow of photo postcards that she and her husband have collected over the course of their journeys.
Grace and Steve are co-authors of Storms & Sand: A Story of Shipwrecks and the Big Sable Point Coast Guard Station (Pine Woods Press, 2014). Storms & Sand tells the history of a life-saving station that once stood in what is now part of Ludington State Park, and chronicles the lives of the lighthouse keepers at Big Sable Point.
Monday’s program is co-sponsored by the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club and the Kalamazoo Public Library. Truman’s presentation begins at 6:30 pm; books will be available for sale and signing.
If you’re interested in the hobby of collecting postcards and other historic images, check out this short video that was shot last month at the club’s show and sale in Kalamazoo.
Book
Storms & Sand
9780985463694]]>Keith_12014-05-16T12:00:18ZOn Monday evening, May 19th, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will present “Michigan Lighthouses: Past and Present,” a trip along Michigan’s shoreline with author Grace Truman at the Oshtemo Branch Library. Truman will illustrate her talk with a slideshow of photo postcards that she and her husband have collected over the course of their journeys.

And... if you’re intrigued by the hobby of collecting postcards and other historic images, here’s short video from the club’s show and sale last month in Kalamazoo.

Book

Storms & Sand

9780985463694

]]>Images of the Civil Warhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032394986&blogid=2186
One of the great things about KPL is that its collections are so vast, varied, and sometimes surprising. Our 107-year-old government documents collection yields some of the best surprises. A few years ago, we cataloged one of the real gems of the documents collection - the entire 128 volumes of The War of the Rebe]]>Beth T2014-03-20T15:09:28ZOne of the great things about KPL is that its collections are so vast, varied, and sometimes surprising. Our 107-year-old government documents collection yields some of the best surprises. A few years ago, we cataloged one of the real gems of the documents collection - the entire 128 volumes of The War of the Rebellion: A compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. This fully indexed set contains reports, correspondence, orders, etc. for all military operations of both the Union and Confederate armies during the Civil War. You wouldn’t think that could be beat, but the documents collection yielded something even more fascinating – the Atlas to Accompany the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies. It doesn’t look like much on the outside, but wait until you see all the images inside. There are maps of battles, diagrams of forts, images of war-damaged buildings; as well as uniforms, weapons, wagons, boats and trains. The atlas provides a total visual history of the Civil War.

]]>The New History Roomhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032393960&blogid=2186
If you haven’t been to the history room recently, come by for a visit! You’ll notice something different as soon as you get to the second floor when you see our beautiful new entrance. But that’s just the beginning. The local history room has gone through a lot of changes over the last few months. From time to time ]]>Beth T2013-12-05T09:38:27ZIf you haven’t been to the history room recently, come by for a visit! You’ll notice something different as soon as you get to the second floor when you see our beautiful new entrance. But that’s just the beginning. The local history room has gone through a lot of changes over the last few months. From time to time we were noisy, a little dusty, and sometimes even closed; but the disruption has really paid off! We now have twice as much space, and everything we need to help with local history and genealogy research is easily accessible. Improvements to the history room include:

• Special collections conveniently separated for easy access, including: genealogy; city directories and phonebooks; maps and atlases; and yearbooks. • Microfilm, microfilm reader/printers, and hard copies of Kalamazoo Gazettes housed within the history room. • Print station is now located next to the computers. • Shelves have more room, making books easier to find and giving us room to grow!

Enjoy a few photos of the new history room and then come in and see it for yourself.

Book

History room entry

]]>Things are happening!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032393229&blogid=2186
The Local History Room has had to close up for a couple of days while we get organized into our expanded space. Things are quite a mess right now, but soon we’ll be enjoying more room and a great new layout .
Our collection isn’t accessible at the moment, but don’t forget that all the genealogy databases can be]]>Beth T2013-09-26T09:26:52ZThe Local History Room has had to close up for a couple of days while we get organized into our expanded space. Things are quite a mess right now, but soon we’ll be enjoying more room and a great new layout.

Our collection isn’t accessible at the moment, but don’t forget that all the genealogy databases can be accessed from any of the computers in the Central Library and the branches, and there are many wonderful local history and genealogy books available in the circulating collection.

Book

History Room Renovation

lh-room-2013-0891-160

/renovation/]]>See Our Community Calendarhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032392347&blogid=2186
Welcome to the KPL Local History Community Calendar ! Join us in investigating widely diverse Historical subjects presented by local historical societies, organizations, collectors, and preservationist groups. We list conferences, tours, meetings, special events, and large Southwest Michigan antique markets and exten]]>TamaraS2013-07-02T11:55:18ZWelcome to the KPL Local History Community Calendar! Join us in investigating widely diverse Historical subjects presented by local historical societies, organizations, collectors, and preservationist groups. We list conferences, tours, meetings, special events, and large Southwest Michigan antique markets and extend our invitation to anyone interested in history to visit the Community Calendar on the KPL Local History Website. Scheduling an event or program of local historical nature? Complete an information form, or call 269.553.7843, and we will be happy to list your event on our calendar.

Book

Local History Community Events

calendar-1895-2-160

http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/community-events/]]>Green Dots in Local History Collectionhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032392346&blogid=2186
We have recently updated Our Local History Reference Collection with green dot stickers on books that have circulating copies. This means that any title in Local History with a green dot sticker has a duplicate that can be checked out. Patrons may simply look up the title in our catalogue or ask the Local History Refe]]>TamaraS2013-07-02T11:22:50ZWe have recently updated Our Local History Reference Collection with green dot stickers on books that have circulating copies. This means that any title in Local History with a green dot sticker has a duplicate that can be checked out. Patrons may simply look up the title in our catalogue or ask the Local History Reference person to find the location of the circulating copy. Patrons are welcome to put the title on reserve if it is checked out or only available in a branch library.

Book

Green Dot Poster

green-dot-poster-160

http://kzpl.ent.sirsi.net/client/KPL]]>A Gem for Irish Researchhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032392154&blogid=2186
We are very fortunate to be able to continually add new books to the history room collection. They include items on local and regional history, Michigan history, and genealogy research techniques and materials. I enjoy searching for these items and perusing them when they are ready for shelving in the local history]]>Beth T2013-06-20T13:49:20ZWe are very fortunate to be able to continually add new books to the history room collection. They include items on local and regional history, Michigan history, and genealogy research techniques and materials. I enjoy searching for these items and perusing them when they are ready for shelving in the local history room. Occasionally a new book will really jump out at me and I will find myself totally absorbed. This happened with our newest addition to the collection for Irish genealogy research, Atlas of the Great Irish Famine by John Crowley. This big, beautiful book is full of gorgeous photographs and artwork related to Ireland; but its greatest feature is the dozens of maps detailing every aspect of population change, workhouse locations, housing types, employment, cemeteries, soup kitchens, migration… you name it, there’s a map that explains it. However, it isn’t just dry maps and figures. The impact on society is conveyed through written and oral accounts of the time, art, poetry, and in depth analysis. At over eight pounds and 700 pages, this reference book was not designed for cozy, cover-to-cover reading. But once you open it, you’ll find yourself wanting to go back to explore it again and again.

Book

Atlas of the Great Irish Famine

9780814771488

]]>A Win-Win for Genealogistshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032390879&blogid=2186
For those of us who have caught the genealogy bug, there’s no need for further inducement to trace and record our family history. We know the thrill and challenge of genealogical research is addicting all by itself. However, if you need evidence to help justify your obsession with census data and tombstone transcripti]]>Beth T2013-03-07T12:02:24ZFor those of us who have caught the genealogy bug, there’s no need for further inducement to trace and record our family history. We know the thrill and challenge of genealogical research is addicting all by itself. However, if you need evidence to help justify your obsession with census data and tombstone transcriptions to those yet to be infected, I have just the thing. A new book by Bruce Feiler, The Secrets of Happy Families, reports that it is highly beneficial for children to know about their family history. Feiler shares some amazing conclusions drawn from a study conducted by Robyn Fivush and Marshall Duke, professors of psychology at Emory University. Feiler summarizes, “The more children knew about their family’s history, the stronger their sense of control over their lives, the higher their self-esteem, and the more successfully they believed their families functioned.”

Book

The secrets of happy families

9780061778735

]]>Apocalypse Thenhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032390076&blogid=2186
As I was re-shelving materials earlier this month, I dropped a copy of White Pine Whispers by local author Larry B. Massie .
When I picked it up, it was turned to the opening page of a chapter
entitled 'When Doomsday Came and Went'. In it, he relates the story of a
population awaiting the arrival of a date th]]>PatrickJ2012-12-31T14:47:15ZAs I was re-shelving materials earlier this month, I dropped a copy of White Pine Whispers by local author Larry B. Massie.
When I picked it up, it was turned to the opening page of a chapter
entitled 'When Doomsday Came and Went'. In it, he relates the story of a
population awaiting the arrival of a date that was foretold to bring
with it the end of the world. With December 21 fast-approaching, I
thought it would make for an appropriate read.

Massie opens the chapter with a brief story of Daniel B. Eldred, a
pioneer notable for having given the city of Climax its name. Allegedly,
Eldred had set out for Kalamazoo on the morning of October 19, 1844
when a linchpin came loose from his wagon and one of his wheels became
unstable as a result. Upon nearing Galesburg, he sought the attention of
a blacksmith. The blacksmith began to work to carefully reshape the
linchpin to ensure a proper fit when Eldred asked that he just "Drive it
in; it will answer for three days. I shan't want it after that as the
world is coming to an end."

Eldred was a Millerite, a group that believed that the world would
end on March 21, 1844, and led by the farmer-turned-preacher, William
Miller. Miller had become enamored with the biblical passage Daniel 8:14
which stated, "Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the
sanctuary be cleansed." He deemed these words prophetic and believed
that this foretold the second coming of Christ which would coincide with
a cleansing of the Earth by fire. Additionally, he suggested that the
2,300 days mentioned in the passage should be interpreted as 2,300 years
and would have begun in 457 BCE, the year that the fifth king of the
Achaeminid Empire, Artaxerxes I of Persia decreed that Jerusalem would
be rebuilt.

When the day dawned on March 22nd without incident, some
Millerites had been rattled in what became known as the "Great
Disappointment", but most maintained their faith that the prophecy would
hold true by the end of the year. After some recalculations and
number-crunching, Miller settled on October 22nd as the day
that would mark the end of the 2,300 year period. By the time that the
date arrived, Daniel Eldred of Climax was one of several hundred
thousand Millerites who were anxiously awaiting the apocalypse. Eldred
and many others had abandoned their professional duties since March of
that year. Children had stopped attending school, debts had been
settled, and fields that should have been nearing harvest lay fallow.

The second "Great Disappointment" occurred when October 22 gave way
to October 23. By this point, Eldred and many others in Michigan and
elsewhere were financially ruined, having staked their livelihoods on
the notion that they would no longer have any need for earthly pursuits.
Eldred sold his farm in Climax and relocated to Virginia, presumably
after fixing his wagon's linchpin a bit more thoroughly.

The most enduring legacy of this story was the founding of
the Seventh Day Adventist Church, organized by a group of Millerites
that remained dedicated to the idea that the prophecy would eventually
come true. Nearby Battle Creek, MI quickly became the nexus of the
Church's activities under the leadership of Ellen G. Harmon and James
White, devout Millerites who married and relocated there in 1855.

White Pine Whispers is a collection of short stories and
essays concerning Michigan's history on topics as diverse as the effects
of the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918 and the history of the sport of
Lacrosse. It and many other books by Larry B. Massie are available in the Local History Room.

Book

White Pine Whispers

]]>Browse Our Collection - Onlinehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032389796&blogid=2186
One of the best parts of working in the history room is getting to know the collection and all of the wonderful items in it. There’s only one problem. Sadly, people just don’t come in and say “Hey, show me something really cool,” so some of my favorite things don’t get as much attention as I feel they deserve. Howev]]>Beth T2012-12-11T10:17:11ZOne of the best parts of working in the history room is getting to know the collection and all of the wonderful items in it. There’s only one problem. Sadly, people just don’t come in and say “Hey, show me something really cool,” so some of my favorite things don’t get as much attention as I feel they deserve. However, that’s all about to change. We are now making selected items completely accessible through our website, and will be scouring the history room for great things to share in the coming months.

Our first offering is a catalog from the Henderson-Ames Company of Kalamazoo that dates back about 100 years. It contains products exclusively for the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Henderson-Ames boldly claimed, “We are ready to show any Lodge, that the great values which have made us the leaders for many years in the manufacture of Odd Fellow Regalia, Costumes, etc., are increased in this the most complete catalog ever published.” There’s no way to know if their assertion was correct, but with 134 pages of everything from false beards to grave markers, they couldn’t have been far off. Enjoy flipping through the catalog, and be sure to check out the large color images of costumes that begin on page 71.

Book

IOOF catalog

Ioof-079-160

http://kzpl.ent.sirsi.net/client/KPL/search/results?qu=Degree+Staff+costumes%2C+regalia%2C+paraphernalia%2C+books%2C+blanks+and+supplies+for+Odd+Fellow+Lodges+%3A+net+catalogue+number+five&te=&lm=ALLLIBS]]>A Trip Down Memory Lanehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032389064&blogid=2186
The Library is 140 years old! Part of our recent celebration included collecting and displaying photos of the library over the years. It was so fun to see the pictures of former staff, earlier buildings, long obsolete equipment, branch libraries, promotions, and library patrons from years ago. The collection spans fro]]>Beth T2012-10-23T10:22:41ZThe Library is 140 years old! Part of our recent celebration included collecting and displaying photos of the library over the years. It was so fun to see the pictures of former staff, earlier buildings, long obsolete equipment, branch libraries, promotions, and library patrons from years ago. The collection spans from the first library building, which was completed in 1893, all the way into the 1990s. The photos were displayed at the Central library, but they are so great we wanted to make them available permanently through the website.

Enjoy this gallery and let us know if it brings back memories.

Book

Kalamazoo Public Library, 1920s

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalamazoopubliclibrary/sets/72157631806487811/]]>McConnell Photograph Collectionhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032388306&blogid=2186
It happens to many of us – a distant relative by marriage or a close family friend passes away. They had no children, and someone delivers a box of old photos to you because there is no one else to take them. You don’t know who any of the people in the photos are and you’re quite sure none of them are related to you. ]]>Beth T2012-08-17T10:51:55ZIt happens to many of us – a distant relative by marriage or a close family friend passes away. They had no children, and someone delivers a box of old photos to you because there is no one else to take them. You don’t know who any of the people in the photos are and you’re quite sure none of them are related to you. So what do you do with them? Well, you might consider donating them to the library located in the city where most of the photos were taken.

We are very fortunate that thoughtful people have done that very thing from time to time here at KPL, and recently the photo collection of Marion Louise McConnell came to us that way. It is an incredible collection of over 100 photos from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many are portraits taken by Kalamazoo photographers. Unfortunately, very few are identified, but the collection is too good not to share. We have created a Flickr collection and will be updating it with information regarding the photographers and any other clues we can determine. Enjoy the slideshow, and if you recognize any of the people or places please leave a comment on the photo. Families that may be included in the collection are McConnell, Rineveld, Kelder, Born, and Link.

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Marion Louise McConnell

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalamazoopubliclibrary/sets/72157631096317746/]]>Moustaches, Cigars…and Potatoeshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032387823&blogid=2186
This unidentified photo really has to speak for itself, because we have absolutely no information about it. It features two men who clearly like to live large – sporting large moustaches, cigars…and potatoes! They are sitting on a step at the outside entrance of a building. Styles suggest a date around the turn of t]]>Beth T2012-07-03T16:26:48ZThis unidentified photo really has to speak for itself, because we have absolutely no information about it. It features two men who clearly like to live large – sporting large moustaches, cigars…and potatoes! They are sitting on a step at the outside entrance of a building. Styles suggest a date around the turn of the 20th century. Let us know if you can shed any light on this image.

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with. We’ll tell you what we know and you can respond if you have any ideas. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy some of our interesting old photos.

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Men with potatoes

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http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=potatoes&library=LOCAL-COMM&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=PHOTO&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>A Character from 1940s Kalamazoohttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032387306&blogid=2186
Unlike many of our unidentified photos, this amazing image came with just about everything short of a name. The man in the photo has a weathered face full of character, and at first glance it looks like he should be out in the old west. A closer look reveals that he is holding a puppy. The information on the back of]]>Beth T2012-05-31T11:29:49ZUnlike many of our unidentified photos, this amazing image came with just about everything short of a name. The man in the photo has a weathered face full of character, and at first glance it looks like he should be out in the old west. A closer look reveals that he is holding a puppy. The information on the back of the photo identifies him as a former schoolteacher and a “hermit [who] lived on KL Ave.” The photographer, Chester B. Robinson, apparently captured the image around 1942. Can you give this man a name?

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with. We’ll tell you what we know and you can respond if you have any ideas. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy some of our interesting old photos.

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Unidentified man

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http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=hermit&library=LOCAL-COMM&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=PHOTO&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Interesting Costumed Grouphttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15032386924&blogid=2186
This photo has to be one of the most unusual in our collection. It features a group of robed or costumed women, a man with a skull and cross bones, and a goat. Historic photos really don’t get any better. Unfortunately, it was not identified in any way. It may be a fraternal organization or possibly a theatrical pro]]>Beth T2012-05-03T15:14:02ZThis photo has to be one of the most unusual in our collection. It features a group of robed or costumed women, a man with a skull and cross bones, and a goat. Historic photos really don’t get any better. Unfortunately, it was not identified in any way. It may be a fraternal organization or possibly a theatrical production of some sort. Whatever it is, there must be a good story associated with it. Do you know the tale behind this photo?

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with. We’ll tell you what we know and you can respond if you have any ideas. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy some of our interesting old photos. View all photos in this “unidentified” series.

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Unidentified group photo

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http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=lodge+regalia++AND+goat&library=LOCAL-COMM&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=PHOTO&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Does this neighborhood look familiar?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=34498&blogid=2186
Beth T2012-03-20T16:18:59ZThis week’s unidentified photo is a great one of a children’s bicycle parade. Unfortunately, it came to us with only the caption “World War II – Kalamazoo” for identification. However, it is full of clues for anyone with memories of that neighborhood or time period in Kalamazoo. At least six of the children’s faces are in good view. Many details of three houses and some of a fourth are visible. There is even a man in the background with ladders set up, working on one of the homes. Does this neighborhood look familiar to you? What about the children?

Help us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with. We’ll tell you what we know and you can respond if you have any ideas. But even if you don’t, be sure to take a minute to enjoy some of our interesting old photos. View all photos in this “unidentified” series.

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Unidentified Photos

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/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?category=Unidentified+Photos&blogid=2186]]>Who are these people?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=34435&blogid=2186
Beth T2012-03-13T11:03:24ZHelp us! Our local history photograph collection is a wonderful resource, but unfortunately not every photo comes to us with full details of the place, people, or date associated with it. For that reason, we are enlisting your help. Watch our local history blog posts in the coming weeks for photographs that we could use a little assistance with.

Our first offering has always been one of my favorites. It came to us with the Wallace White collection, but appears to be a photo taken earlier and copied by White. It features two young children, seated and facing the camera. We have estimated the date to be around 1850. The only identification given was “Miss Howard’s sisters.” Can you help us discover their identity?

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Unidentified Photos

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/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?category=Unidentified+Photos&blogid=2186]]>The Telegraph is Here!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=34260&blogid=2186
We have some exciting new additions to the KPL family, beginning with our new Regional Publications & Images database This new database will allow users to browse and perform online keyword searches of historic newspapers, photographs, and other Kalamazoo Public]]>Keith_12012-02-23T10:42:09ZWe have some exciting new additions to report, beginning with our new Regional Publications & Images database! This new database will allow users to browse and perform online keyword searches of historic newspapers, photographs, and other Kalamazoo Public Library holdings that were previously only available as hard copy or on microfilm.

For starters, the database includes freshly digitized issues of the Kalamazoo Daily Telegraph from the years between 1868 and 1885, plus issues of the (weekly) Kalamazoo Saturday Telegraph from 1893 to 1899. And more issues of the Telegraph are being digitized “as we speak.” Additional publications (and eventually images) will be digitized and added to the database as resources allow.

Telegraph Building on South Street, c.1920

The Kalamazoo Telegraph was published under varying ownership between 1844 and 1916. Somewhat of a mirror to the staunchly Democratic Gazette, the Kalamazoo Telegraph reflected local happenings from a Republican perspective, which can be a boon for researchers. Many times, the two competing papers offered strikingly different accounts of local events; from politics to sports, entertainment, and most everything else in between. An event that appeared rather insignificant in the pages of the Gazette might have received in-depth coverage by the Telegraph, and of course vice versa.

And as if that’s not exciting enough, yet another project coming down the pike will be a newly digitized version of the Grand Army Memorial Record, a book “designed expressly for Grand Army posts throughout the national department of the Grand Army of the Republic for the purpose of securing and perpetuating the military history of every Grand Army comrade.” Created in 1884, the book is a handwritten account of those who served in the Grand Army of the Republic, Department of Michigan, Orcutt Post No. 79 at Kalamazoo. Once digitized, this book should be a welcome addition for family genealogists and Civil War historians. Watch for it soon!

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Regional Publications & Images: 1868-1899

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/regional-publications/]]>Crispus Attucks in American History and Memoryhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=34208&blogid=2186
A runaway slave of African and Native American ancestry, Crispus Attucks was immortalized as the first casualty of the 1770 Boston Massacre. But who was Attucks anyway, and why would a fugitive dockworker be immortalized as a martyr and colonial American hero?]]>Keith_12012-02-14T08:52:58ZA runaway slave of African and Native American ancestry, Crispus Attucks was immortalized as the first casualty of the 1770 Boston Massacre. But who was Attucks anyway, and why would a fugitive dockworker be revered as a martyr and colonial American hero? Attucks’ story is shrouded in mystery and what is known about his background is more speculation than fact.

WMU associate professor Mitch Kachun has added Attucks’ story to his long list of research projects, hoping to help ensure what he describes as “Crispus Attucks’ place in American history and memory.”

Join us at the Oshtemo Branch Library on Tuesday evening, February 14th, 6 pm, as Dr. Kachun reveals his recent research on Attucks as he lays the groundwork for a major new book about one of America’s most well-known—yet virtually unknown folk heroes.

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Mitch Kachun presents Crispus Attucks in American History and Memory

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/events/crispus-attucks/]]>Come to a Lock-In!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=33868&blogid=2186
Beth T2012-01-12T14:42:45ZOur next Genealogy Lock-In is coming up soon! If you’ve never been to one and are curious, here’s how they work: Lock-Ins are held on Friday nights from 6 to 10 pm three times a year. They begin after the Library closes so that genealogists can have the computers and resources all to themselves. Printing and copying are free during Lock-Ins and there are staff members available to answer questions and give research advice. Lock-ins are fun and friendly, providing a comfortable atmosphere in which to research. The collaborative environment is ideal for both new and experienced genealogists alike, and researchers often help each other solve perplexing genealogical problems. Lock-Ins are not intended to be instructional, although participants often learn a great deal. For those looking for help getting started, the Intro to Genealogy program might be a good option – and there is one coming up at the Alma Powell Branch in February. So if spending a cold winter night searching for clues to your family history sounds good to you, go online or call the History Room desk (269-553-7808) to register for the next Genealogy Lock-In on Friday, January 20.

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Genealogy Lock-In

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/room.aspx]]>Covert, Michigan and the Smithsonianhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=33493&blogid=2186
A few weeks ago I went to Covert, Michigan to be interviewed by Deborah Tulani Salahu-Din, the Project Director for the Smithsonian Institution African American Museum of History &amp; Culture, and Michele Gates Moresi, the Curator for the museum. They had requested a meeting with the descendants of the early black an]]>Valerie O2011-11-30T13:17:26ZA few weeks ago I went to Covert, Michigan to be interviewed by Deborah Tulani Salahu-Din, the Project Director for the Smithsonian Institution African American Museum of History & Culture, and Michele Gates Moresi, the Curator for the museum. They had requested a meeting with the descendants of the early black and white settlers of Covert, Michigan. My great-great grandfathers William Bright Conner and his family, and Dawson Pompey and his family were the first African Americans to settle in Covert, Michigan after the Civil War ended. My great grandfather John Conner and his brother Frank, and his two brother-in-laws Himebrick Tyler and Joseph Seaton and my great grandfather Washington Pompey and his brother Napoleon were all veterans of the Civil War.

Our library has a book titled A Stronger Kinship: One Town’s Extraordinary Story of Hope and Faith by Ann Lisa-Cox which tells the story of Covert’s unique history as a racially integrated community during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Covert was a town where blacks and whites went to church and school together. They lived among each other and intermarried. Blacks held public offices and owned businesses. My great grandmother Annis Pompey owned and operated a cider mill and was the first female in Covert to have her own business. Anna Lisa-Cox was instrumental in getting the Smithsonian to take a look at this community.

Valerie Osborne and Deborah Tulani Salahu-Din

The new Smithsonian African American Museum of History & Culture will have an exhibition titled “Making a Way Out of No Way” which will include eleven communities from across the United States and Covert, Michigan will be one of the eleven exhibits.

I’m very excited that my ancestors will be a part of this exhibit and proud of the contributions they made to society. If you are interested in learning more about the new Smithsonian Museum of African American History & Culture that will open in 2015, you can visit this website: http://nmaahc.si.edu/

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A Stronger Kinship

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]]>Kalamazoo Telegraph Online Soonhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=33133&blogid=2186
Good news, genealogists and Kalamazoo local history enthusiasts! We are excited to announce a digitization project that has begun here at KPL. We will soon be making digital images of the Kalamazoo Telegraph available through our website with full keyword searching. Daily Telegraph issues from April 6, 1868 to Jul]]>Beth T2011-10-20T16:54:47ZGood news, genealogists and Kalamazoo local history enthusiasts! We are excited to announce a digitization project that has begun here at KPL. We will soon be making digital images of the Kalamazoo Telegraph available through our website with full keyword searching. Daily Telegraph issues from April 6, 1868 to July 24, 1885 have already been scanned, and more will follow in the months to come. We have a bit more work to do before we can get them online, so keep watch on our website for more information in the coming weeks. This valuable resource will soon be just a click away!

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Kalamazoo Telegraph

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/]]>“All About Kalamazoo History”http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=32968&blogid=2186
If you’ve visited the “All About Kalamazoo History” section of the KPL website lately, you’ve probably noticed a few changes here and there—most notably the addition of a State History Award “gold medal” banner “All About Kalamazoo History” (KPL’s online]]>Keith_12011-10-10T12:16:43ZIf you’ve visited the “All About Kalamazoo History” section of the KPL website lately, you’ve probably noticed a few changes here and there—most notably the addition of a State History Award “gold medal” banner! “All About Kalamazoo History” (KPL’s online collection of local history essays) has been awarded a 2011 State History Award by the Historical Society of Michigan (HSM)! State History Awards are presented to those individuals and organizations that “have made outstanding contributions to the appreciation and understanding of Michigan history.” The State History Awards are the highest recognition presented by the state’s official historical society.

When asked what prompted the judges to select KPL for this prestigious award, Dr. Sharon Carlson, HSM board secretary and director of the WMU Archives & Regional History Collections, responded without hesitation by saying, “it was the breadth and depth of the collection. I regularly refer people to these information rich pages. They are an appropriate resource for researchers ranging from a middle school student competing in History Day to genealogists to more serious researchers looking for core publications about a topic.” HSM education and awards coordinator, Emily Asbenson, added, “the judges were extremely impressed with the way KPL presents and teaches local history.”

“All About Kalamazoo History” has grown considerably since its inception, and now consists of more than 600 pages in twenty one different categories, which collect and preserve the stories of those who helped shape Kalamazoo and its environs. Some are brief vignettes while others offer richly detailed cultural histories; all are painstakingly written and researched by members of the Kalamazoo Public Library staff. These pages attempt to provide interesting reading and valuable research tools for local and regional genealogists, historians, educators, and library patrons.

According to retired KPL Local History librarian Catherine Larson, “we have tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about each topic, (both) for the convenience of our patrons, and to make efficient use of staff time. We have tried to design a structure that is sufficiently flexible that it can grow in any direction that seems appropriate, even if we can’t foresee it right now. As I recall, we established the web site in 1998 or 1999. The initial Local History offering was three essays each in four categories. We have grown quite a bit since then, and the structure has served us well. It feels good to be part of a team that puts out such a useful product.”

“One of the great things about the website,” says current Local History specialist Beth Timmerman, “is that it has allowed us to collaborate with other institutions in Kalamazoo. Many of the house and building histories are from the 1973 Initial Inventory of Historic Sites and Buildings in Kalamazoo which was made available to us by Sharon Ferraro, the city’s historic preservation coordinator. Another great collaboration has given us one of our most popular sections—the Kalamazoo: Then and Now photo gallery. This is an ongoing project with Professor William Davis at WMU and his photography students who re-create historic photos from our collection.” In addition, staff at Kalamazoo Valley Museum and WMU Archives & Regional History Collections have been extremely helpful with providing photographs and information, as have our patrons. Comments and valuable additions to these essays have been received from across the United States, Canada and abroad.

Congratulations to Beth, the Local History staff, and everyone else who contributes to KPL’s virtual branch! Your award-winning library now has an award-winning website!

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2011 State History Award

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/local-history/all-about-kalamazoo/2011-state-history-award.aspx]]>Hull & Arnold’s Quadrille Bandhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=32662&blogid=2186
After reading the article about Social Music in 19th Century Kalamazoo, part of the “All About Kalamazoo History” section of the Kalamazoo Public Library website, a KPL patron alerted us to an artifact that provides some interesting information about Hull &]]>Keith_12011-09-06T12:38:13ZAfter reading the article about Social Music in 19th Century Kalamazoo, part of the “All About Kalamazoo History” section of the Kalamazoo Public Library website, a KPL patron alerted us to an artifact that provides some interesting information about Hull & Arnold’s Quadrille Band.

While searching through some family items, Ray Buhl wrote that he had found a letter written to his great-great-grandfather, James Crawford, by John Hull, a highly respected violinist and leader of Hull & Arnold’s Quadrille Band of Constantine. Hull & Arnold’s Band was well known throughout Michigan and Indiana during the mid-nineteenth century and the group performed often in Kalamazoo.

The letter, written in John Hull’s own hand on band stationery, reads as follows:

Florence, Mich. Feb 26th, 1882

Friend Jas. Crawford,

Enclosed please find two violin strings. I had them on my violin and when I got my Italian strings, I changed them. I hope they will please you and make your old Amati ring. With regard to you and your amiable wife,

I am as ever your friend,

John Hull.

While the text is of little historical significance, the printed letterhead provides important clues about the membership of Hull and Arnold’s band during the 1880s. At the time the letter was written (and the letterhead was printed), band members were John Hull, violin; Daniel Arnold, Clarionet(sic); Charles H. Arnold (replacing Morris Arnold), trombone; and (importantly), Charles E. Rogers, cornet.

Charles Rogers was the leader of the Constantine (Michigan) Cornet Band, and he later formed the Rogers Cornet Band of Goshen, Indiana. During the late 1880s, Rogers’ Band became the “official” musical performance group of the Chautauqua movement in upstate New York. Several prominent Kalamazoo musicians, including Chester Z. Bronson and his brother, William Bronson, were members of Rogers’ bands at one time or another. C. Z. Bronson was, of course, the first director of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to the band roster, the letterhead also verifies that Hull & Arnold’s band was indeed organized in 1838, a fact that that was generally understood, but remained unconfirmed until now, and that as of 1882, Hull was living in Florence Township just east of Constantine in St. Joseph County.

After reading the article on the KPL website, Mr. Buhl was kind enough to provide the library with a copy of the letter and a note explaining that the letter was found in his great-grandfather Norman Crawford’s violin case (having been passed down from his father, James), but sadly the violin in the case was not an Amati.

Our sincere thanks to Mr. Buhl for sharing his findings. No matter how small, items such as this help fill the missing pieces of the mosaic that makes up our local history. Like the store owner says during the Pawn Stars program on the History Channel, “You never know what is going to walk through that door.”

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Violinist John Hull, ca. 1875

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/local-history/arts-entertainment/social-music.aspx]]>A Historical Timeline of Michilimackinachttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=32570&blogid=2186
On Monday evening, September 26, at 6 pm, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will host a presentation by Madeline Okerman Adie at the Oshtemo Branch Library entitled “A Historical Timeline of Michilimackinac.” Madeline is the author of Mackinaw City, part]]>Keith_12011-08-26T08:55:45ZOn Monday evening, September 26, at 6 pm, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will host a presentation by Madeline Okerman Adie at the Oshtemo Branch Library entitled “A Historical Timeline of Michilimackinac.” Madeline is the author of Mackinaw City, part of the Postcard History Series from Arcadia Publishing.

The Mackinac Straits Area, including Colonial Michilimackinac, St. Ignace, Mackinaw City, and Mackinac Island, has captivated tourists for generations. Madeline will discuss three different theories about the meaning of Michilimackinac, and then take the audience on an excursion through the history of the Mackinac area from the 1600s until the opening of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957, illustrated with dozens of historic postcard images. “I think I have some interesting trivia about the Mackinac area that many folks don't know!” says Adie.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about one of Michigan’s favorite getaway destinations!

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Mackinaw City

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]]>Genealogy: Summer Stylehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=32196&blogid=2186
While genealogy is a great pursuit any time of year, many people take a break from serious research in the summer. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the thrills of a genealogical search. Whether you’re soaking up sun at the beach, on your way to a fantastic vacation destination, or just hiding inside y]]>Beth T2011-07-20T09:57:05ZWhile genealogy is a great pursuit any time of year, many people take a break from serious research in the summer. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the thrills of a genealogical search. Whether you’re soaking up sun at the beach, on your way to a fantastic vacation destination, or just hiding inside your air conditioned house, there are many engaging books related to genealogy to enjoy. Buzzy Jackson’s Shaking the Family Tree: Blue Bloods, Black Sheep, and Other Obsessions of an Accidental Genealogist is a fun account of a historian-turned-genealogist and her quest to track down her Jackson (20th most common American surname) ancestors. With chapters entitled “Information Wants to be Free; or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love DNA Testing” and “Beaches and Burke’s Peerage; or, The Genealogy Cruise” you know you’re in for an entertaining read that is definitely NOT a typical genealogy how-to.

So while you’re enjoying your break, keep sharp by reading about someone else’s family search – whether it be fact or fiction.

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Shaking the Family Tree

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]]>The Kid from Kalamazoohttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=32102&blogid=2186
Whether you like baseball or not (ok… there might be one or two), you must admit that everyone cheered when Kalamazoo native Derek Jeter belted the 3,000th hit of his career in grand style on Saturday with a solo home]]>Keith_12011-07-11T10:09:14ZWhether you like baseball or not (ok… there might be one or two), you must admit that it was exciting when Kalamazoo native Derek Jeter belted the 3,000th hit of his career in grand style on Saturday with a solo home run, a feat that only a handful of others have achieved—and the first New York Yankee to do so. Gazette writer Joyce Pines called for city-wide recognition for the “Kid from Kalamazoo. ” He deserves it.

But believe it or not, Jeter was not the first Kalamazoo kid to make significant “firsts” for the same New York team. Just over a century ago, “Big John” Ganzel, nicknamed for his imposing six foot, 195 pound stature (a truly BIG man by 19th century standards), signed a three year contract with the New York Highlanders (later Yankees) in 1903 and proceeded to make his mark with the team during its inaugural season. On May 5th of that year, John was responsible for the Highlander’s first ever triple play, and a week later, John belted the Highlander’s first ever home run against the Detroit team in his home state on May 11th.

John Ganzel was one of five brothers who made names for themselves in “America’s game” during the late 1800s and the early decades of the twentieth century. All five played local, regional and state league ball. John had a very successful career as player and later as a manager, and his brother Charlie, “one of the greatest catchers the world has ever produced” (Gazette), became one of the most famous ball players of his day with four National League Championships and one World Series championship to his credit. Charlie’s son, Foster Pirie “Babe” Ganzel, later carried on the tradition through the 1920s. Read the full story of the Ganzel Brothers, Michigan’s “First Family” of baseball in the “All About Kalamazoo History” section of the KPL website.

Once again, congratulations Derek! You continue to make Kalamazoo (and the rest of the country) very proud!

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John Ganzel

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/biographies/ganzel-brothers.aspx]]>Public Murals in Kalamazoohttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=32022&blogid=2186
On a walk through downtown Kalamazoo, one would be hard pressed to fail to take notice of both the number and variety of works of public art which adorn building facades, walkways, parks, and even alleys. After completion of a photo gallery dedicated to public sculpture in Kalamazoo , the idea of creating a similar]]>PatrickJ2011-06-26T15:17:45ZOn a walk through downtown Kalamazoo, one would be hard pressed to fail to take notice of both the number and variety of works of public art which adorn building facades, walkways, parks, and even alleys. After completion of a photo gallery dedicated to public sculpture in Kalamazoo, the idea of creating a similar gallery of public murals came up and immediately appealed to me. One of the tasks that I have enjoyed the most as the local history room intern has been the exploration and documentation of the landscape of Kalamazoo through photography.

Once begun, the project began to swell beyond my initial impressions of the number of public murals to be found in Kalamazoo. Some murals have been present for decades and have become so well integrated into the cityscape that they have become easy to overlook. New murals are arriving annually, being painted by local artists such as Conrad Kaufman, who has made a name for himself in the region due to the sheer number of murals he has created for both public and private audiences.

While some of Kalamazoo's murals are easily located, others are more well hidden. Throughout the process of locating and documenting these works of art, I have often been surprised at what can be discovered through a slight variation of a routine route through town. After an examination of the murals in the photo gallery, it is my hope that you will seek them out on your own if should you happen find yourself nearby. If you are aware of any murals that are readily accessible to the public and have not yet been included in the gallery, please let me know in order to help make the list as complete as possible.

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"Kirbyville"

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/photos/arts-entertainment-photos/public-murals.aspx]]>An Unexpected Encounter with the Triangle Lunchhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=31660&blogid=2186
One of the most interesting and fun aspects of working in the local history room is receiving new (old) materials for the collection . These come to us from a variety of sources and are often a complete surprise. Last week we received one of these unexpected gifts all the way from North Carolina. The donor had appa]]>Beth T2011-05-24T11:35:09ZOne of the most interesting and fun aspects of working in the local history room is receiving new (old) materials for the collection. These come to us from a variety of sources and are often a complete surprise. Last week we received one of these unexpected gifts all the way from North Carolina. The donor had apparently never lived here. His father had lived in Michigan but moved away over 80 years ago – however, for some reason he saved a postcard of the Triangle Lunch on old US 131 between Kalamazoo and Plainwell. The family held onto that postcard all these years and then very thoughtfully passed it on to us. I am always amazed and grateful when people take the time to do things like that.

We are having a wonderful time trying to unlock the clues in this photo. Our donor believes that it would have been purchased in the late 1920s or early 1930s, and we know from phonebooks that a Triangle Lunchroom was operating in Cooper Township at that time. We have not yet determined where on old 131 (Douglas Avenue) the diner sat, or the owners, but we have many resources still to check. If you have any information for us regarding the photo, please let us know. Local residents are often our best resources!

One interesting note – we had hoped to get vital information from a sign in the window of the building, but no amount of magnification seemed to help. Finally, Mandana Nordbrock, with her sharp (young) eyes solved this important mystery – it read “Juicy Ham Burgers.”

Book

Historic photos

Triangle-lunch-2-160

http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/photos/gallery.aspx]]>Railroads of Michigan: The Story Continueshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=31383&blogid=2186
On Monday evening, May 23, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will present part two of its series of programs at the Oshtemo Branch Library entitled “Railroads of Michigan Small Pictures, Big Stories.” Regional railroad history expert and author Mark Worrall will]]>Keith_12011-05-12T12:24:52ZOn Monday evening, May 23, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will present part two of its series of programs at the Oshtemo Branch Library entitled “Railroads of Michigan: Small Pictures, Big Stories.”

Regional railroad history expert and author Mark Worrall will share more rare and unusual photos of railroads from Michigan’s past and discuss the intriguing and sometimes unbelievable stories behind them. “From oat powered trains to air powered railroads; oil trains on the Annie to Hunter Specials roaring across the Upper Peninsula; Grand Rapids reefers to the Duluth South Shore & Atlantic’s spending binge in 1888.” Mark is a compelling presenter and his programs always receive enthusiastic reviews. Come early, Mark’s program begins promptly at 6:30 pm.

“Lakeshore & Michigan Southern wreck that occured on the northside of Kalamazoo on June 18, 1913.” ~Mark Worrall

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn more about Michigan’s historic rail lines!

Book

Railroads of Michigan: Small Pictures, Big Stories

kalamazoo-mut-streetcar-160

/local-history/railroads-of-michigan-part-2/]]>Public Sculpture in Kalamazoohttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=31125&blogid=2186
Over the course of the last year, my position as local history intern has afforded me numerous opportunities to engage in a variety of projects, most of which have allowed me to pursue my own personal local history interests while contributing to the body of material available to the public for use in their own histor]]>PatrickJ2011-04-23T14:42:08ZOver the course of the last year, my position as local history intern has afforded me numerous opportunities to engage in a variety of projects, most of which have allowed me to pursue my own personal local history interests while contributing to the body of material available to the public for use in their own historical inquiries. When the weather has been appropriate, these projects have often taken me outdoors, camera in hand, and onto the streets of Kalamazoo. Last summer, I had the distinct pleasure of visiting and photographing the various historic districts of Kalamazoo County in order to compile information from the National Register of Historic Places and the State Historic Preservation Office in a series of web pages. When appropriate, I would always opt to walk to these destinations. In my pedestrian travels throughout Kalamazoo, I was frequently impressed by the quality and quantity of public memorials, monuments, sculptures, murals, and other works of art. When discussion regarding updates to the library’s online photo gallery of local public sculpture occurred last winter, I immediately became interested in contributing to this effort.

As soon as the last of the significant quantities of snow had melted, and the weather had begun to turn more hospitable, I was ready to take new photographs of the works previously included, and quickly decided to expand the collection. From nine, the gallery has grown to thirty-nine with plans to include approximately two dozen additional sculptures. The sheer number of works of public sculpture found in Kalamazoo renders even this list incomplete, and it is my hope that if you are aware of a work that has been currently overlooked, you will inform me in order to help create the most comprehensive list possible.

These sculptures are, and have been, sources of civic pride for the residents of Kalamazoo, and we are lucky to conduct our lives amidst an atmosphere that encourages and appreciates the creation of works of artistic expression. While I am continuing to expand the gallery devoted to public sculpture in Kalamazoo, I am also currently engaged in creating a similar gallery focusing on public murals. It is my hope to have a version available by the end of spring.

Book

Kalamazoo Ruby Light Chandelier

Sculpture-160

http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/photos/arts-entertainment-photos/public-sculpture.aspx]]>Save the Stackhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=30925&blogid=2186
Some things improve with age a vintage wine, a hand crafted musical instrument, or perhaps a lifelong relationship with a significant other. Other things need a little help if they are expected to survive. During the 1970s, the water tower at]]>Keith_12011-04-12T12:57:35ZSome things just get better with age; a vintage wine, a hand crafted musical instrument, or perhaps a lifelong relationship with a significant other. On the other hand, some things need a little help if they are expected to survive.

There’s a new movement afoot to save the aging smokestack next to the old Gibson guitar factory (now home to Heritage Guitar Inc., and others) at 225 Parsons Street in Kalamazoo. The factory was built in 1917 and its smokestack, emblazoned with the vertical letters G-I-B-S-O-N, has since stood as a proud monument to the iconic company that once occupied the property. Sadly, time has begun to take its toll on this historic landmark. The aging structure is in desperate need of repair or it will eventually have to face the inevitable.

Local supporters have started a “Save the Stack” campaign to raise awareness and hopefully save the Gibson smokestack. Visit the group’s new Facebook page, share photos and stories, “Like” what they are doing, and join the effort!

Gibson factory site, April 2011

Book

The Historic Gibson Smokestack

gibson-smokestack-2011-04-12-160

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Gibson-Smokestack-Save-The-Stack/206539726030337]]>Albert Einstein: Word Gets Aroundhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=30790&blogid=2186
Back in October I wrote about Albert Einstein and Charles Fischer, and what appeared to be something written in Einstein’s own hand in the library collection. With that post the call went out to try to identify the writing perhaps determine]]>Keith_12011-03-30T09:18:06ZBack in October I wrote about Charles Fischer meeting Albert Einstein on a 1930 world cruise, and an item now in the library collection that appears to be written in Einstein’s own hand. The call went out to try to identify the writing and perhaps determine if indeed it was written by Einstein himself.

Not long after, we received a call from Belgium. Author Alain Findling is working on a book about Albert Einstein—not Einstein the physicist or Einstein the philosophical genius, but Einstein the musician. Fascinating! Music it seems played an important role in Einstein’s life, as evidenced in the brief video from the Institute of Physics at the end of this post. Mr. Findling was intrigued by the photo of Einstein and Fischer, and wanted to know more about the story behind it. We’ll certainly be curious to learn more about Mr. Findling’s research.

And just this week, we received a communication from Osik Moses, Assistant Editor for the Einstein Papers Project at The California Institute of Technology. The Einstein Papers Project, “one of the most ambitious publishing ventures ever undertaken in the documentation of the history of science,” plays a leading role in the effort to document, preserve, and publish the written work of Albert Einstein.

Ms. Moses forwarded the following explanation from her colleague, Dr. Jeroen van Dongen from the University of Utrecht, The Netherlands. Van Dongen explains, “The calculations refer to Einstein’s attempts to develop a unified field theory of gravitation and matter. First he defines the Einstein tensor (G), next he studies the Euler-Lagrange variations.” (Heavy stuff indeed for a vacation cruise.) Van Dongen then adds, “...in light of this explanation it is impossible that Einstein “collaborated” with Fischer. Maybe Fischer saw Einstein working on the unified theory and asked him for a page that Einstein was going to drop in the waste bin.” Again... fascinating!

So just as we might have surmised, the unidentified napkin appears to be a unique souvenir of world travel that Charlie Fischer brought home to Kalamazoo. A truly international effort now provides evidence to suggest that the writings are most likely the authentic scribblings of Albert Einstein. The world gets a little smaller every day.

Book

Possible Einstein Writings

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http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalamazoopubliclibrary/5120661802/]]>Railroads of Michigan: Small Pictures, Big Storieshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=30685&blogid=2186
On Monday evening, March 28, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will present the first in a two part series of programs at the Oshtemo Branch Library entitled “Railroads of Michigan Small Pictures, Big Stories.” Regional railroad author and expert Mark Worrall will share rare]]>Keith_12011-03-24T09:02:54ZOn Monday evening, March 28, the Southwest Michigan Postcard Club will present the first in a two part series of programs at the Oshtemo Branch Library entitled “Railroads of Michigan: Small Pictures, Big Stories.”

Regional railroad history expert and author Mark Worrall will share rare and unusual photos of railroads from Michigan’s past and discuss the intriguing and sometimes unbelievable stories behind them. “From oat powered trains to air powered railroads; oil trains on the Annie to Hunter Specials roaring across the Upper Peninsula; Grand Rapids reefers to the Duluth South Shore & Atlantic’s spending binge in 1888.” Mark is a compelling presenter and his programs always receive enthusiastic reviews. Monday’s program begins at 6:30 pm.

“A Duluth South Shore & Atlantic crew looks on impatiently while the photographer records the Lake Gogebic station stop for Train No. 5 while a couple of fisherman proudly show off their catch.” ~Mark Worrall

Mark will present the second part of his program at the Oshtemo Branch Library on May 23rd.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn more about Michigan’s historic rail lines!

Book

Railroads of Michigan: Small Pictures, Big Stories

harbor-beach-resort-train-160

/local-history/railroads-of-michigan-part-1/]]>An Ailment by Any Other Name….http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=30332&blogid=2186
Perhaps the last time you attended a sporting event or concert, you awoke the next day to find you had come down with Clergyman’s Throat (“An impairment of the voice due to excessive or improper use of the voice. Can also be caused by excessive use of tobacco or liquor.” p.29). Then again, there are those who suffer]]>JeffR2011-03-03T09:46:02ZPerhaps the last time you attended a sporting event or concert, you awoke the next day to find you had come down with Clergyman’s Throat (“An impairment of the voice due to excessive or improper use of the voice. Can also be caused by excessive use of tobacco or liquor.” p.29). Then again, there are those who suffer, during the long dry, winter months, from Furfur (Furfaire) (“Any scaling of the skin, such as dandruff” p.53). Or, maybe you were frustrated during your lunch break when trying to quickly place your order to find the individual behind the counter to be quite Starblind (“A condition in which an individual stares with eyes half closed, appears to be slow to understand, and blinks frequently” p.135). There is a wealth of obscure medical ailments and their cures held within this rather slight, economical (just 178 pages including reference citations) and yet fascinating and informative publication, A Medical Miscellany for Genealogists. Dr. Jerger has written, or perhaps it is better to say compiled, her book expressly for the use of understanding antiquated medical terms. It functions like a dictionary. It was created by one who was herself frustrated, despite more than thirty years of experience in the medical field, by inscrutable language when investigating her ancestor’s life histories and the ailments from which they suffered and perhaps succumbed to. Dr. Jerger has also supplemented this list with terms from Native American, European, Asian and African folk beliefs and healing traditions.

Whether your understanding is impeded by neglected medical nomenclature while in the midst of genealogy research, studying old medical records, while attempting to enjoy literature of the time or even if you just have an interest in obscure words and phrases, this book is an excellent resource for being specific to the medical field and terminology that has fallen out of favor, various pseudonyms for the same practice or perhaps practices or medicines that are no longer in use (“Inhalation of Gas- A form of pneumotherapy. Inhalations of carbonic acid and sulfurous acid were used to treat tuberculosis of the lungs, asthma and emphysema.” p. 71). From the completely unheard of (“Spruce Beer- A remedy made by boiling the tops of spruce boughs in beer. Used to treat scurvy in the 18th century.” P.134) to the familiar disguised in strange nomenclature (“Polish Disease- Also syphilis.” P.111, “Scourge of Nations- Also Cholera” p 125 or “St. Hubert’s Disease- Also Rabies” p.122) you can use this book as a research tool or as a source for a few moments interesting and educational diversion.

Book

A Medical Miscellany for Genealogists

0788403753

]]>Michigan's Historic Schoolhouseshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=30110&blogid=2186
When it comes to historic buildings, few generate the level of interest that one-room schoolhouses do. It’s hard to pass one by without taking a second look and wondering what life was like for students who were educated there. It’s also fascinating to see how they have been remodeled and repurposed into homes, shops,]]>Beth T2011-02-14T16:10:04ZWhen it comes to historic buildings, few generate the level of interest that one-room schoolhouses do. It’s hard to pass one by without taking a second look and wondering what life was like for students who were educated there. It’s also fascinating to see how they have been remodeled and repurposed into homes, shops, and other useful structures. On February 24, the Library will host a program for all of us who love these old buildings - Michigan’s Historic One Room Schoolhouses. Presenter Dianna Stampfler will take us on a photographic tour of schoolhouses throughout Michigan and reveal their history and how many are being used today. Dianna always presents a lively, informative program; and as a resident of southwest Michigan her presentation will include many familiar landmarks. Join us at 7:00 pm on the 24th for a great program, and don’t forget that you can always find useful information about Kalamazoo County rural schools under Education in the All About Kalamazoo History section of our website.

Book

Michigan’s Historic Schoolhouses

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/one-room-schools/]]>Lost… and Found!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=29719&blogid=2186
While sorting through some of our internal networks in search of files for a recent project, I ran across a terrific find. Last May, local shipwreck hunter and author Valerie van Heest gave an excellent program at Central Library called]]>Keith_12011-01-24T09:57:57ZWhile sorting through some of our internal networks in search of files for a recent project, I ran across a terrific find. Last May, local shipwreck hunter and author Valerie van Heest gave an excellent program at Central Library called “Lost and Found: Shipwrecks of West Michigan.” During her 55 minute presentation, van Heest talked about the many vessels that have been lost in the waters off Michigan’s west coast, and provided an overview of the work her team has done over the past fifteen years to locate and document these wrecks. Valerie showed compelling images (both still and video) of what they’ve found, and provided fascinating insight into the discovery process itself.

KPL staff videotaped the program in May, but for whatever reason, the files were stored away and seemingly forgotten. With this new “discovery,” the program is now available in its entirety on KPL’s YouTube Channel, and linked along with the other Local History Video Presentations on the KPL website.

It was truly exciting to view Valerie’s program; itself once “lost and (now) found!”

Book

Lost and Found: Shipwrecks of West Michigan

shipwrecks-of-west-michigan-160

http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=D6AAE96ECC82E177]]>Was it a Vase?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=29211&blogid=2186
One thing nearly always leads to another, when you’re doing library research. Last week a patron asked us to find the text of an old poem about the Kalamazoo River; while hunting it down, Local History librarian David DeVries discovered this gem in the history room Poetry file . Undated, the accompanying note said th]]>RuthW2010-11-23T10:22:19ZOne thing nearly always leads to another, when you’re doing library research. Last week a patron asked us to find the text of an old poem about the Kalamazoo River; while hunting it down, Local History librarian David DeVries discovered this gem in the history room Poetry file. Undated, the accompanying note said that it had been reprinted by request in the Kalamazoo Telegraph, though “doubtless many in Kalamazoo have read it.”

The V-A-S-E

From the madding crowd they stand apart, The maidens four and the Work of Art;

And none might tell from sight alone In which had Culture ripest grown--

The Gotham Million fair to see, The Philadelphia Pedigree,

The Boston Mind of Azure hue, Or the soulful Soul from Kalamazoo--

For all loved art in a seemly way, With an earnest soul and a capital A.

Long they worshipped; but no one broke The sacred stillness, until up spoke

The Western one from the nameless place, Who, blushing, said: "What a lovely vase!"

Over three faces a sad smile flew, And they edged away from Kalamazoo.

But Gotham's haughty soul was stirred To crush the stranger with one small word.

I did not catch your remark, because I was so entranced with that lovely vaws!"

James Jeffry Roche 1847-1908

Book

History Room Poetry File

greek-vase-2-160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=history+room+poetry+file+NOT+prose&library=LOCAL-COMM&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Researching Our Neighbors to the Northhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=28957&blogid=2186
Having Irish ancestors who originally settled in Canada before immigrating to the U.S., I am always eager to find new sources for Canadian research. I’m happy to report that several new resources have recently become available in the history room for those of us searching for clues to our Canadian roots. We now have]]>Beth T2010-11-09T15:26:13ZHaving Irish ancestors who originally settled in Canada before immigrating to the U.S., I am always eager to find new sources for Canadian research. I’m happy to report that several new resources have recently become available in the history room for those of us searching for clues to our Canadian roots. We now have four volumes of the series Erin’s Sons: Irish Arrivals in Atlantic Canadaby Terrence Punch. The title suggests it contains passenger lists, but that's just the beginning. The series currently spans from 1761 to 1863 and also includes newspaper articles, census, regimental, church, prison, and marriage records, burials, tombstone inscriptions, and more. Another recent acquisition with a different focus on Canadian genealogy is Margaret Ann Wilkinson’s Genealogy and the Law in Canada. This book tackles Canada’s laws pertaining to personal data protection and access to information, and how they affect genealogical research. These complicated issues are thoroughly explained in Wilkinson’s book, and readers come away with a clear understanding of what records they can and can’t expect to obtain in Canada. Finally, many of Ancestry Library Edition’s newest additions are databases of Canadian records. Dozens of databases that run the gamut from British Columbia Medical Register, 1890 to Quebec Land Grants, 1763-1890 were added in October alone. With all these new resources, there couldn’t be a better time to work on your Canadian research in the Local History Room.

Book

Erin's Sons: Irish Arrivals in Atlantic Canada

erins-sons-4-160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=erins+sons+AND+punch{AU}&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Albert Einstein and Charles Fischer: “Solving the world’s problems on the back of a cocktail napkin”http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=28827&blogid=2186
In December 1930, Albert Einstein and his second wife, Elsa, set sail for the US aboard the cruise ship SS Belgenland. This would be Einstein’s second trip to the United States, and the first of three trips he would make]]>Keith_12010-10-27T11:46:24ZIn December 1930, Albert Einstein and his second wife, Elsa, set sail for the US aboard the cruise ship SS Belgenland. This would be Einstein’s second trip to the United States, and the first of three trips he would make during the early 1930s. Einstein was again aboard the Belgenland in 1933 when they received word that Adolph Hitler had become chancellor of Germany and that Einstein himself had become a target of assassination by the Nazis. Einstein left the ship that year in Belgium, vowing never to return to Germany. After emigrating to the United States, Albert Einstein became a US citizen in October 1940, seventy years ago this month.

“I never think of the future. It comes soon enough.” —Albert Einstein, in an interview on the SS Belgenland, December 1930.

During the 1930-31 cruise aboard the SS Belgenland, Einstein became friends with the shipboard bandleader, Kalamazoo’s own Charles Fischer. The two, it seems, shared at least one common interest, the violin. On occasion, Einstein would borrow Fischer’s violin and join the orchestra for a few numbers.

Albert Einstein, probably aboard SS Belgenland, January 1931.

The Kalamazoo Public Library has in its collection an interesting souvenir of the occasion – a single page from what was apparently a souvenir scrapbook, given to the library by Charles Fischer’s widow after his death in 1948. On one side of the cardboard page is a photograph of Charles Fischer, sharing a conversation with Albert Einstein about his violin. The same photo was later featured in a Kalamazoo Gazette article about Fischer and his famous orchestras.

What is this?

On the other side of the page is an undated, nondescript paper napkin with what appears to be handwritten scribblings, perhaps notes written by Einstein himself. Were Einstein and Fischer (forgive the obvious nod to Lawrence Weinstein and John A. Adam) “solving the world’s problems on the back of a cocktail napkin?” Was this something new that Einstein was working on? Or was he simply sharing ideas to his newfound friend??

And so, the appeal goes out to the scientific community… What might these scribbles mean? Are they indeed the writings of Albert Einstein as they appear to be?? We’d love to hear your comments. Add a comment below or contact the Local History Room.

Book

Albert Einstein and Charles Fischer

charles-fischer-albert-einstein-1930-160

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalamazoopubliclibrary/5120661854/]]>Local History Detective Workhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=28638&blogid=2186
The Southwest Michigan Postcard Club held its fall show and sale this past weekend, an event which usually leads to some interesting historical finds. This time around, I went with one specific purpose in mind—to locate images of Kalamazoo’s early musicians.]]>Keith_12010-10-11T09:53:35ZThe Southwest Michigan Postcard Club held its fall show and sale this past weekend, an event which usually leads to some interesting historical finds. This time around, I went with one specific purpose in mind—to locate images of Kalamazoo’s early musicians. Photo postcards of this nature are often difficult to locate, and this hunt proved to be no exception… until one card caught my eye—a nondescript photo of an orchestra, taken by a known local photographer (Austin) and postmarked 9 March 1908 in Kalamazoo. Information on the back of the card stated “they” would be performing in Ionia on the 17th of March, and was signed F. O. Pinkham. (Pinkham was also identified as “lower row, 2nd from right” in the photo.) But the exact identity of the orchestra remained a mystery.

Kalamazoo College Mandolin Orchestra, ca. 1908

After doing some speedy detective work, we were able to determine that the photo was of the Kalamazoo College Mandolin Orchestra taken about 1908. Formed in 1907, the orchestra was the first to debut R. F. Holden’s newly penned composition, Kazoo, which was to become the ‘K’ Alma Mater. In March 1908, the orchestra made a successful concert tour of Southern Lower Michigan, with stops in several towns, including Grand Rapids, and on the 17th of March, Ionia. A featured performer with the orchestra was a tenor singer named Fred Oliver Pinkham, further confirming the identity of the orchestra pictured on the card.

Book

Gibson mandolin

gibson-mandolin-160

/local-history/business/gibson.aspx]]>Keepin’ it Safe for Bicyclistshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=28513&blogid=2186
As a bicycle commuter, who used to cross several lanes of Kalamazoo Avenue traffic in fear every time I rode to work, I’ve dreamed of visiting Davis, CA. Davis is one of three communities given top honors by the League of American Bicyclists, as a Bicycle Friendly Community . It also is featured, among other cities, ]]>Christine2010-09-27T15:59:10ZAs a bicycle commuter, who used to cross several lanes of Kalamazoo Avenue traffic in fear every time I rode to work, I’ve dreamed of visiting Davis, CA. Davis is one of three communities given top honors by the League of American Bicyclists, as a Bicycle Friendly Community. It also is featured, among other cities, in Jeff Mapes’ Pedaling Revolution: How Cyclists are Changing American Cities. Mapes traces the grassroots movement of cycling activists to create room and safety for cyclists in many communities. It’s an inspiring topic.

Locally, Kalamazoo is making progress for non-motorized travelers. The development of sections of the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail provides Kalamazoo area cyclists and hikers with additional paved trails free of motor vehicle traffic. Now you can hook up to the Kal-Haven Trail from an access point downtown. By later this fall, you should be able to ride the trail from the Kalamazoo riverfront out to the Kalamazoo Nature Center, and ultimately, plans call for the trail to extend as far as Battle Creek.

The 2010 Kalamazoo Master Plan--drawn up to project city land use plans for the next 20 years--states that “expanding non-motorized connections is a high priority for residents and city leaders.” The plan includes a map on p. 49 (well, p. 55 in the Adobe read-only format) which details the current and planned non-motorized connections for the city. If you prefer to read the plan in print, our Local History room holds a copy of the final version.

Book

Pedaling revolution : how cyclists are changing American cities

9780870714191

]]>Fort St. Joseph: Train Ride to the 18th Centuryhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=28207&blogid=2186
On Saturday, August 14, a group of us gathered at Amtrak’s Kalamazoo station for a “train ride to the 18th century” – the 2010 Fort St. Joseph Archaeology Open House in Niles. The trip, organized by retired Western Michigan University]]>Keith_12010-08-27T15:33:05ZOn Saturday, August 14, a group of a dozen or so gathered at Amtrak’s Kalamazoo station for a “train ride to the 18th century” to visit the 2010 Fort St. Joseph Archaeology Open House in Niles. The trip, organized by retired Western Michigan University librarian Kay Chase, gave Kalamazoo residents a chance to visit the site of historic Fort St. Joseph, only recently discovered and being gradually unearthed as part of a WMU field school project.

The theme of this year’s open house was “Women of New France,” with demonstrations on cooking, basket weaving, musket firing, and other activities from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Student archaeologists operated an “Outdoor Museum” with details of their work and examples of what has been found.

The fort, active from 1671-1781, was established by the French as a trading post, but ultimately stood under English, Spanish and finally United States rule before being abandoned in 1781—hence the region’s designation as the “Four Flags Area.” The fort played a significant role in the colonial fur trade, and though its existence was known, its exact location remained a mystery until a short time ago.

Fort St. Joseph originally shared a great deal with its northern counterpart, Fort Michilimackinac, but don’t expect a similar reconstruction of the fort in Niles any time soon. The Fort St. Joseph project is still very much in its infancy, and unfortunately, due to the damming of the St. Joe River over the years, much of the site now lies beneath the current water table. Archaeologists must continuously pump water away from the site while they work, then allow the river to reclaim its territory at the end of each season.

What we found most impressive, however, was the enthusiasm displayed by each of the student archaeologists. They are to be commended for cheerfully and knowledgably—if not emphatically—describing their work and bringing their methods and their findings to light for us onlookers. And what they are finding is truly amazing… the remains of a blacksmith’s fire pit, apparent building footings, and a host of artifacts – animal bones, gun parts, tools, buttons, jewelry, and the like. It was a truly inspiring and rewarding experience.

Book

Fort St. Joseph, 1691-1781 : the story of Berrien County's colonial past

H 977.411 P517

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=H 977.411 P517]]>Cemeteries of Kalamazoohttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=27959&blogid=2186
While I attest to having a fascination with the art and park-like beauty of many cemeteries, working in the local history room has given me an even greater appreciation for them as a tool in genealogical and local history research. Many times, a tombstone provides just the clue needed to fill in a blank or push the re]]>Beth T2010-08-05T12:05:04ZWhile I attest to having a fascination with the art and park-like beauty of many cemeteries, working in the local history room has given me an even greater appreciation for them as a tool in genealogical and local history research. Many times, a tombstone provides just the clue needed to fill in a blank or push the research in a different direction. But with around 70 cemeteries and burial grounds in Kalamazoo County, tracking down a gravesite can sometimes be a challenge.

Over the years, individuals and groups like the DAR and the Kalamazoo Valley Genealogical Society have published books of cemetery records and tombstone inscriptions for various cemeteries and we have those in the local history collection. In more recent years there have also been some very ambitious projects launched on the Internet that provide burial/tombstone information - and many times even photos of individual stones. The problem is that no one set of books or single website has everything for all the cemeteries in the area.

In response to this issue, the Library has launched Cemeteries of Kalamazoo. This collection of web pages locates all the known cemeteries and burial grounds in Kalamazoo County and identifies all the sources – both print and online – for burial and tombstone data for each individual cemetery. You can search for the information by township or with the Cemeteries A-Z index.

As with many of our projects, this is a work in progress and we intend to update and expand as more information comes our way. So be sure to let us know if we’ve missed anything or you know of a new source and we’ll promise to keep this a tool that will be useful for years to come.

Book

Cemeteries of Kalamazoo

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/kalamazoo-county-cemeteries/]]>Take a Walk on the Historic Sidehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=27312&blogid=2186
Kalamazoo is brimming with great history and there are many ways to enjoy it. One of my favorites is through the Gazelle Sports Historic Walks led by Lynn Houghton. The walks are fun, informative and a great way to slow down and truly appreciate all the wonderful historic architecture Kalamazoo has to offer. As a lo]]>Beth T2010-06-11T17:09:23ZKalamazoo is brimming with great history and there are many ways to enjoy it. One of my favorites is through the Gazelle Sports Historic Walks led by Lynn Houghton. The walks are fun, informative and a great way to slow down and truly appreciate all the wonderful historic architecture Kalamazoo has to offer. As a local historian, regional history curator at the WMU Archives and Regional History Collections, and co-author of Kalamazoo Lost and Found, Lynn’s credentials can’t be beat. She deftly identifies the characteristics of architectural styles like Greek Revival, Italianate, Art Deco and many more that can be found throughout Kalamazoo. But that‘s not all you’ll learn. Every building has a story related to the people involved with it – from designers, to builders, to occupants – and you will have the opportunity to hear many of those stories, and through them, learn a great deal about Kalamazoo history.

The walks are free and take place on selected Thursday evenings and Friday mornings through summer and into the fall. Dates, times and locations of this season’s Historic Walks can be found on our Local History Community Events Calendar. So put on your walking shoes and get out there and enjoy the history that surrounds you!

Book

Lynn Houghton

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/community-events/]]>Meet the Author - and His Civil War Ancestorhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=27158&blogid=2186
The Civil War is a topic of great interest to many people - and when you add in a Michigan connection with a portrayal of an actual Civil War soldier you have the makings of a great program. In collaboration with the General Benjamin Pritchard Camp 20 Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, the library will be presen]]>Beth T2010-05-20T13:10:17ZThe Civil War is a topic of great interest to many people - and when you add in a Michigan connection with a portrayal of an actual Civil War soldier you have the makings of a great program. In collaboration with the General Benjamin Pritchard Camp 20 Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, the library will be presenting just such a program.

The program begins at 7:00 - but come early for the book signing at 6:30. The 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War is less than a year away, and this is a great opportunity to commemorate our history.

Book

Oh Hast Thou Forgotten, Michigan Cavalry in the Civil War

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http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=oh+hast+thou+forgotten&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Our Great Lakes Connectionhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=26800&blogid=2186
In the strictest interpretation of the term “ local history,” you might not consider topics related to Lake Superior or even Lake Michigan close enough to qualify here in Kalamazoo. However, as residents of Michigan--whether living on the lakeshore or in the dead center of the state--we all feel a special connection ]]>Beth T2010-04-27T13:30:42ZIn the strictest interpretation of the term “local history,” you might not consider topics related to Lake Superior or even Lake Michigan close enough to qualify here in Kalamazoo. However, as residents of Michigan--whether living on the lakeshore or in the dead center of the state--we all feel a special connection to each of the Great Lakes and consider them our own. For that reason, we are hosting two wonderful programs in May related to the Lakes. On May 5, Valerie van Heest--author, shipwreck hunter and member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame--will be here presenting her program Lost and Found: Shipwrecks of West Michigan. Ms. van Heest will treat her audience to a history of Great Lakes shipping through the dozens of almost timelessly preserved shipwrecks that lie hidden off the shores of West Michigan. Then, on May 13, we will have the rare opportunity to discover what Great Lakes lighthouse keeping was really like from someone who lived it. The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter, Frances Platske, will share her childhood experiences of life in lighthouses on Lake Superior and her passion for preserving this important part of our state’s heritage. So get ready to expand your horizons and get in touch with history that is uniquely Michigan.

Book

Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/lighthouse-keeper/]]>Glimpse Kalamazoo’s Pasthttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=26256&blogid=2186
Wouldn’t you love to peruse historic photos of places you see every day, or that you remember but no longer exist? In the history room we get to work with these photos every day and we know how much interest they engender. For that reason we’ve made our photo collection (as well as portions of the WMU Archives and K]]>Beth T2010-03-19T10:24:32ZWouldn’t you love to peruse historic photos of places you see every day, or that you remember but no longer exist? In the history room we get to work with these photos every day and we know how much interest they engender. For that reason we’ve made our photo collection (as well as portions of the WMU Archives and Kalamazoo Valley Museum photo collections) available for viewing in our local information database. But if you don’t feel like searching for photos, take a look at our photo galleries. We’ve pulled out some of the best photos from our collection and grouped them together under various topics. You can see Washington Square evolve from the turn of the twentieth century into the 1990s, enjoy the beauty of Kalamazoo parks, and stroll down Burdick Street in the 1800s. Or maybe you prefer photos of people like the portraits of the Kalamazoo High School Class of 1872, or people at work at Gibson Guitar or the Michigan Asylum. Our photo galleries provide a wonderful glimpse of Kalamazoo’s past and are available for you to enjoy whenever you feel like looking back.

Book

Businesses - Photo Galleries

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/photos/business-photos/]]>Heyday for Genealogyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=25953&blogid=2186
For decades, local history room staff have witnessed the amazing thrill people get when they locate that lost ancestor, solve a family mystery, or simply find a grandparent recorded in the U.S. Census. Genealogical research enthralls millions worldwide. To those of us involved in this community, it might seem that gen]]>Beth T2010-02-16T15:07:40ZFor decades, local history room staff have witnessed the amazing thrill people get when they locate that lost ancestor, solve a family mystery, or simply find a grandparent recorded in the U.S. Census. Genealogical research enthralls millions worldwide. To those of us involved in this community, it might seem that genealogy could not get any bigger--but that is clearly not the case. Public radio’s Marketplace recently aired a segment “How Big is Genealogy” which discussed the huge popularity of the hobby. This was demonstrated, in part, by two primetime television shows airing this season. Henry Louis Gates, creator of African American Lives, returns to the topic of genealogy with the four part PBS series Faces of America in which he reveals the family history of 12 American celebrities. Part two premiers February 17. NBC has also discovered the allure of genealogy. Partnering with Ancestry.com, they will air a similar show called Who Do You Think You Are? next month. With the influx of retiring baby boomers, this trend will likely continue to grow-- and we’ll be ready for it in the local history room.

Book

Genealogy

Memories-160

http://www.kpl.gov/genealogy/]]>Pique Your Interest with ‘All About Kalamazoo’ Essayshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=25704&blogid=2186
The local history room has been bringing Kalamazoo’s past to life for more than a decade through All About Kalamazoo essays on the KPL website. Back in 1998, the website launched with twelve essays written by local history staff, divided into four categories: Houses, Businesses, Biography, and General Topics. Over]]>Beth T2010-01-28T16:47:40ZThe local history room has been bringing Kalamazoo’s past to life for more than a decade through All About Kalamazoo essays on the KPL website. Back in 1998, the website launched with twelve essays written by local history staff, divided into four categories: Houses, Businesses, Biography, and General Topics. Over the years, this feature of our website has grown dramatically through the interests and efforts of dozens of people. Today we offer nearly 150 essays in 17 different categories.

I will never forget when local history specialist Catherine Larson, who pioneered our local history web pages, invited me to start writing essays for the website. She said to write on any topic that interested me, because if it interested me, it would interest other people. That attitude has paid off and resulted in a great collection of essays on a very diverse set of topics - everything from parks to parking and Lassies to Ladies. But please don’t think that we've run out of things to say. New essays are being added to the website all the time - four in just the last month! So keep checking back, because if it interests us…

Book

All About Kalamazoo

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/essays.aspx]]>Not to be Overlookedhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=25304&blogid=2186
The Local History Room is so full of all different kinds of resources that at times it can feel a little overwhelming. Some of the resources that can often go overlooked are the small volumes that touch on very specific genealogical topics for a particular region of a country. One example would be the 21 volume set ]]>CS2009-12-29T09:52:00ZThe Local History Room is so full of all different kinds of resources that at times it can feel a little overwhelming. Some of the resources that can often go overlooked are the small volumes that touch on very specific genealogical topics for a particular region of a country. One example would be the 21 volume set Abstracts of the Proceedings of the Prerogative Court of Maryland. Although titles of this nature may sound a bit cumbersome, the front of the first volume of each set contains an introduction that explains the material found in the set and how it can be used.Other volumes may have a more straightforward title such as the recently acquired, Scotland During the Plantation of Ulster: The People of Dumfries and Galloway, 1600-1699. Generally, the sets of this nature are indexed by people’s names so if you have a particular ancestor you are looking for, the search is pretty simple. So how do you go about finding these books when the titles can be so long and you may not know what to enter in the Catalog? You can do a keyword search for a particular state or country or you can browse the history room shelves for these books since the genealogy section is laid out geographically. If talking to a person is more your style, the staff in the local history room are always willing to help you with your search.

Book

Scotland During the Plantation of Ulster

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http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=scotland+dumfries&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>World War II – A Different Perspectivehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=24997&blogid=2186
My great aunt served as a nurse during World War II and as a result I have always had an interest in biographies written by women who worked in a similar capacity. The local history room owns copies of two such biographies, Bedpan Commando by June Wandry and World War II Front Line Nurse by Mildred A. MacG]]>CS2009-11-24T16:29:45ZMy great aunt served as a nurse during World War II and as a result I have always had an interest in biographies written by women who worked in a similar capacity. The local history room owns copies of two such biographies, Bedpan Commando by June Wandry and World War II Front Line Nurse by Mildred A. MacGregor. Bedpan Commando which was published in 1989 tells of June Wandry’s experiences in North Africa and throughout Europe. The book was so engaging that I’ve read it twice now. World War II Front Line Nurse is a recent addition to our collection. In her time of service, Mildred A. MacGregor also served in various locations in North Africa and across Europe, similar to June Wandry. Her story differs from that of June Wandry in that she was truly on the front lines. In her account she tells of arriving at Omaha Beach 16 days after D-Day, serving near the location of the Battle of the Bulge, and arriving at concentration camps following their liberation. These books remind me of how many other heroic stories were lived out during WWII by the many people who did not publish books. They provide invaluable insight into what life might have been like for medical personnel overseas.

Book

World War II Front Line Nurse

9780472033317

]]>One-Stop Shopping for Local History Eventshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=24528&blogid=2186
Kalamazoo is a great place to live if you are into genealogy or history. Not only do we have numerous places close by for doing research , but there are also many area organizations, societies and commissions devoted to preserving or researching history in various ways. Groups like the Kalamazoo Valley Genealogical ]]>Beth T2009-10-17T12:53:18ZKalamazoo is a great place to live if you are into genealogy or history. Not only do we have numerous places close by for doing research, but there are also many area organizations, societies and commissions devoted to preserving or researching history in various ways. Groups like the Kalamazoo Valley Genealogical Society and the Oshtemo Historical Society meet monthly and often offer informative and entertaining programs for the public. The Kalamazoo Valley Museum, Western Michigan University and, of course, the Library all offer events of interest to history buffs. So, wouldn’t it be great if there was one place to look for all the area meetings and programs related to history? Well, now there is! KPL’s Local History Community Events Calendar, which can be accessed from the Local History and Genealogy pages of the website, provides information on events happening locally and even some bigger events taking place a little farther away. Be sure to check it often because new items are added regularly and don’t forget to contact us with information on events you would like included in the calendar. With this new calendar you’ll never have to miss any of the great local history events our community has to offer.

Book

Community Events Calendar

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/community-events/]]>Tracing Your Irish Family Historyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=24132&blogid=2186
Has the idea of tracing your Irish roots plagued you but you don’t know where to begin? The Kalamazoo Public Library has recently acquired a book called Tracing Your Irish Family History . It provides details on Irish census records, religious registers, recorded pedigrees and much more. Rather than reading like a ]]>CS2009-10-05T17:22:26ZHas the idea of tracing your Irish roots plagued you but you don’t know where to begin? The Kalamazoo Public Library has recently acquired a book called Tracing Your Irish Family History. It provides details on Irish census records, religious registers, recorded pedigrees and much more. Rather than reading like a textbook the book provides plenty of pictures and many interesting side notes in the margins on topics such as interpreting Gaelic place names, historical events such as the Tithe War, common abbreviations found in Irish documents and other areas of interest. Does the task still feel daunting? Check out a copy and peruse it at your own leisure. Who knows, maybe you too will be bitten by the genealogy bug! The library has many other books on Irish ancestry if you are looking for more information. Interested in genealogy from other countries, nationalities or ethnic groups? Check out the catalog topics listed under the Genealogy topic guide. Remember that if the task feels too overwhelming, you can always contact the staff in the history room, or better yet come in and visit! They can set you on the right path.

Book

Tracing Your Irish Family History

9781554074587

]]>Discovering Local Historyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=23504&blogid=2186
Local history and genealogy enthusiasts are fortunate these days. Not only are there great databases available for research, but the ease of self publishing has resulted in more books on local topics than ever before. The only problem is finding out about them. When I find a good source for local history material fo]]>Beth T2009-09-10T15:03:54ZLocal history and genealogy enthusiasts are fortunate these days. Not only are there great databases available for research, but the ease of self publishing has resulted in more books on local topics than ever before. The only problem is finding out about them. When I find a good source for local history material for an area outside of Kalamazoo it is a huge help. I recently found a source for local books on topics related to Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties and have taken full advantage of it. You will notice many new books for that region being added to our collection over the next month or so. Titles like Then and Now: Coloma - Paw Paw Lake - Watervliet, Michigan, Blossomtime Festival Southwest Michigan: A Pictorial History, 1906-1996, and Photographic Memories: South Haven, Michiganare just a few of the great things that will now be available in the local history room. They may not all be newly published, but do we care? After all, it’s history!

Book

Paw Paw Lake

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http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=H+977.411+R225.3&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Materials Worth Rememberinghttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=23164&blogid=2186
Whenever I have an opportunity to acquaint new people with our local history collection there are certain items and sets that I can’t help but point out. One of these sets is Kalamazoo County Records of Soldiers &amp; Sailors in the Great War . This is actually two sets of scrapbooks; a seven volume set for World W]]>Beth T2009-08-22T12:37:24ZWhenever I have an opportunity to acquaint new people with our local history collection there are certain items and sets that I can’t help but point out. One of these sets is Kalamazoo County Records of Soldiers & Sailors in the Great War. This is actually two sets of scrapbooks; a seven volume set for World War I and a 20 volume set for World War II. They were put together during the Wars to keep track of everyone from Kalamazoo County who served. Each page of the scrapbooks is a form with space for the person’s name, address, personal and family information as well as their war record. Newspaper articles are often pasted to the backside containing further information about the service of the soldier or sailor. While not every form is completely filled out, valuable information can be obtained for each person remembered in these scrapbooks. As we get further and further from these monumental events in our nation’s history it is comforting to know that the individuals from our area who took part will continue to be known and remembered through our collection.

Book

Topic Guides

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http://www.kpl.gov/guides]]>Abundant Resources – For Nowhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=22690&blogid=2186
When it comes to local history and genealogical research, we have always been fortunate here in Kalamazoo. We have many wonderful collections to draw on between KPL’s local history collection, WMU Archives , the Kalamazoo Valley Museum , and the holdings of many other local organizations that collect and preserve ]]>Beth T2009-07-30T12:04:43ZWhen it comes to local history and genealogical research, we have always been fortunate here in Kalamazoo. We have many wonderful collections to draw on between KPL’s local history collection, WMU Archives, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, and the holdings of many other local organizations that collect and preserve historical materials and make them available to the public. We are also lucky to be located within a few hours drive of several excellent large historical/genealogical collections: the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, the Newberry Library and the Great Lakes Regional Branch of the National Archives both in Chicago, the Burton Collection at the Detroit Public Library, and the Library of Michigan in Lansing.

Sadly, one of these institutions is being threatened with closure and the dismantling of its collection. The Library of Michigan may be a victim of cost-cutting measures recently outlined by the Governor’s Executive Order No. 2009-36. If this takes effect, much of the Library’s holdings may end up at Michigan State University and the non-Michigan genealogy materials will be eliminated or dispersed to other institutions. Over the years, I have heard that the genealogy collection at the Library of Michigan is one of the ten largest collections in the country and it would be a tragedy to see it dispersed. However, genealogists are not letting it go without a fight. On August 5th genealogists from around Michigan (and probably other states) are assembling in Lansing to support the Library of Michigan and to show “legislators and fellow citizens that [they] care about our state's past.” They plan to meet at 9:45 at the State Capitol and later march over to the Michigan Historical Center to form “Hands Around the Library.” The event is being planned by the Michigan Genealogical Council and they invite all interested individuals to join them.

Book

Library of Michigan

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http://www.kpl.gov/genealogy/other-resources.aspx]]>How to use the Kalamazoo Gazette Indexhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=22014&blogid=2186
For over 35 years, staff members from the Local History Room have been indexing the Kalamazoo Gazette . This has been a wonderful contribution for genealogists, researchers and others just looking for information. To use this valuable resource:
Go to www.kpl.gov
Click on “catalog”
At the top of t]]>Lynn H2009-07-15T14:05:13ZFor over 35 years, staff members from the Local History Room have been indexing the Kalamazoo Gazette. This has been a wonderful contribution for genealogists, researchers and others just looking for information. To use this valuable resource:

At the top of the page find “Local Information” and click on that link

Click on “Local Newspaper”

Then type the name or subject that you are researching

REMEMBER…what you are given is a citation. You will need to come to the Library and look at the Gazette on microfilm which can be found in the Tech Center.

If you need to find an article or obituary from a recent issue of the Gazette, talk to the staff in the Local History Room who will be more than happy to assist you.

Book

Local Information Database

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http://www.kpl.gov/local-info/]]>Baseball, the American Pastimehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=21662&blogid=2186
How appropriate that two of the new books in the Local History Room deal with a sport very popular now, namely baseball and more specifically, Detroit Tigers baseball. A Place for Summer by Richard Bak (H 796.357640977434 B166.1) deals with Tiger Stadium and includes some great photographs. The Detroit Tigers ]]>Lynn H2009-07-07T14:48:06ZHow appropriate that two of the new books in the Local History Room deal with a sport very popular now, namely baseball and more specifically, Detroit Tigers baseball. A Place for Summer by Richard Bak (H 796.357640977434 B166.1) deals with Tiger Stadium and includes some great photographs. The Detroit Tigers by William M. Anderson (H 796.357640977434 A5523 2008) is the fourth edition of a comprehensive look at the Tigers. The author also includes statistics on players he feels have been the Tigers’ best outfielders, pitchers, infielders and catchers.

Book

The Detroit Tigers

9780814334140

]]>Another Great Tool!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=21284&blogid=2186
Genealogists know that no single resource has everything they need to trace their lineage. It can take thousands of individual records, documents, articles, etc. to get a full picture of just one branch of a family. That is why databases that pull together millions of historical records and materials are such fantas]]>Beth T2009-06-25T10:02:13ZGenealogists know that no single resource has everything they need to trace their lineage. It can take thousands of individual records, documents, articles, etc. to get a full picture of just one branch of a family. That is why databases that pull together millions of historical records and materials are such fantastic tools for genealogists. KPL offers several wonderful databases for genealogical research including America’s Genealogy Bank that is brand new to us this week. With more than 32 million obituaries, 103 million newspaper articles (dating as far back as 1690), and full text of 11,700 historical books, local genealogists have another amazing resource right at their fingertips. AGB is even available for home access using your KPL library card number. So give our newest database a try. It may be just the tool you need to knock down a genealogical brick wall.

book

America's Genealogy Bank

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http://infoweb.newsbank.com]]>The Lights of Michiganhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=20690&blogid=2186
Lighthouses have been a part of Michigan’s history for many years. Many people in this state will take the opportunity over the summer to visit some of the close to one hundred that are still here, some of which are in public hands and even others that have accommodations for visitors. There are many beautiful books i]]>Lynn H2009-06-12T12:33:48ZLighthouses have been a part of Michigan’s history for many years. Many people in this state will take the opportunity over the summer to visit some of the close to one hundred that are still here, some of which are in public hands and even others that have accommodations for visitors. There are many beautiful books in the Local History Room that have wonderful photographs and interesting information about these buildings. Some of the newer ones that you can find include:

So, if you plan on traveling around Michigan this summer, visit a lighthouse or two, or three…

Book

Great Lakes Lighthouses Encyclopedia

1550463993

]]>Kalamazoo has a Gargoyle?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=20478&blogid=2186
Kalamazoo is fortunate to have many examples of outdoor sculpture throughout the community. In 1980, author Fay Hendry wrote three short books, with photographs by Balthazar Korab, looking at outdoor sculpture in Kalamazoo (H 730 H498), Grand Rapids (H 730 498.1) and Lansing (H 730 H498.2). Even though the boo]]>Lynn H2009-06-08T08:08:58ZKalamazoo is fortunate to have many examples of outdoor sculpture throughout the community. In 1980, author Fay Hendry wrote three short books, with photographs by Balthazar Korab, looking at outdoor sculpture in Kalamazoo (H 730 H498), Grand Rapids (H 730 498.1) and Lansing (H 730 H498.2). Even though the books are 29 years old, there is a lot of good information on many pieces that are still around. It was one of the first books that had research on the panels found on the Zelinger House at the corner of S. Rose and Vine Streets. Of course being 29 years old, there are several pieces that are gone, in fact one, the statue of St. Augustine which more than likely was destroyed in the 1980 tornado which came right after these books were published. So where is our gargoyle? If you don’t know by now, check this book to find out.

If you missed this great series, don’t despair. Each program was video recorded along with brief interviews with the presenters, and will soon appear on our website. Additionally, Julie DeLuca has offered a tour of the Rose Place Historic District which will take place on Thursday, June 4 at 7:00 pm. There is still one more opportunity to celebrate Vine. Lynn Houghton will conduct a tour of the Vine Historic District as part of her 2009 Gazelle Historic Walk series. The tour will begin at the corner of Vine and Westnedge at 8:00 am on August 28.

Book

215 Rose Place

215-rose-place-240

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=vine+neighborhood&library=LOCAL-COMM&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=HISTORYRM&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>What's on top of the cabinets?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=20150&blogid=2186
Ever wonder what those very large bound volumes are on top of the cabinets in the Local History Room ? They are collectively known as the Historical Newspapers . These were special editions of various local newspapers, all laminated and indexed. They were published for such special occasions as the centennial of Kal]]>Lynn H2009-05-28T15:14:32ZEver wonder what those very large bound volumes are on top of the cabinets in the Local History Room? They are collectively known as the Historical Newspapers. These were special editions of various local newspapers, all laminated and indexed. They were published for such special occasions as the centennial of Kalamazoo County in 1937, the opening of the new Kalamazoo Gazette building in 1925 or our nation’s Bicentennial in 1976. Each edition is filled with articles and photographs on our community’s institutions, organizations, businesses and individuals. Make sure you don’t overlook the advertisements which are fascinating in among themselves. What makes these issues useful is that they are indexed and a physical copy can be found right next to them. So the next time you are in the Local History Room, pick one of these up, leaf through it and see what new bit of information you can find out about Kalamazoo.

Book

Historical Newspapers

gazette-160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=HISTORY+ROOM+FILE+TOP&library=LOCAL-COMM&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>The Michigan What?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=19982&blogid=2186
When you visit the Local History Room , walk over to the shelf that has the 328s. There you will find a series of dark red, unassuming volumes that appear to be filled with useless information. How untrue that is! These books are known as the Michigan Manual and are published every two years by the State of Michi]]>Lynn H2009-05-23T11:21:18ZWhen you visit the Local History Room, walk over to the shelf that has the 328s. There you will find a series of dark red, unassuming volumes that appear to be filled with useless information. How untrue that is! These books are known as the Michigan Manual and are published every two years by the State of Michigan pursuant to section 24.24 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, meaning it’s required by law. They are filled with a voluminous amount of information on such subjects as Michigan’s history and its government. It has information on all the statewide elected officials including the Representatives and State Senators and each of Michigan’s Departments listing all the members of various boards and commissions. You can get population numbers for each of our 83 counties, the voting results for the previous primary, special and general elections, the members of the constitution convention of 1961-62 and the names of the Michigan Asparagus Commission. For someone like me who teaches Michigan History, these books are amazing. The Local History Room has manuals on the shelves going back to 1925 and in storage ones dating back to 1861. So the next time you are in the Local History Room and don’t know what to do, pick up one of these books. Who knows what you might find.

Book

Michigan Manual

MichiganOfficialDirectory-160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=michigan+manual+AND+red+book&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Secrets Revealed in Old Photoshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=19742&blogid=2186
Like many people interested in history and genealogy, I love collecting old photographs. There is nothing better than receiving a group portrait of my family members from past generations with everyone carefully identified and the date dutifully recorded. Unfortunately, many historic photos find their way to collector]]>Beth T2009-05-15T15:36:32ZLike many people interested in history and genealogy, I love collecting old photographs. There is nothing better than receiving a group portrait of my family members from past generations with everyone carefully identified and the date dutifully recorded. Unfortunately, many historic photos find their way to collectors without any identification at all. But that doesn’t mean their secrets are locked away forever. Careful examination of historic photos often reveals a great deal about their time period, location, and subjects. The history room has several wonderful books to help you do just that. One of my favorites is Dressed for the Photographer: Ordinary Americans and Fashion, 1840-1900. This book breaks down by decade and clearly identifies the clothing and hairstyles popular for each. Styles for men, women, and children are all included as well as clues to society and popular culture of the time. With 272 photographs, Dressed for the Photographer is enjoyable to browse but is also an incredibly useful tool.

Book

Dressed for the Photographer

0873385128

]]>Kalamazoo and Automobileshttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=19494&blogid=2186
By now we have heard so much about the auto industry in Michigan. Much emphasis has been geared to the southeastern part of the State. For a more local perspective on what this industry meant to Kalamazoo, go to The Kalamazoo Automobilist by David Lyon (H 629.2 L991). A long-time aficionado, Lyon examines the aut]]>Lynn H2009-05-08T08:42:05ZBy now we have heard so much about the auto industry in Michigan. Much emphasis has been geared to the southeastern part of the State. For a more local perspective on what this industry meant to Kalamazoo, go to The Kalamazoo Automobilist by David Lyon (H 629.2 L991). A long-time aficionado, Lyon examines the auto industry in Kalamazoo, focusing on the Michigan Buggy Company scandal. Each chapter has a bibliography and the book has a great deal of illustrations, including thirty-two pages of color photographs from the Locomobile, the first car that ran on our streets, to Western Michigan University’s Sunseeker.

Meanwhile, if you are curious about how such communities as Battle Creek, Otsego and Gun Lake got their names, look for the book, Michigan Place Names by Walter Romig (H 917.74 R765) in the Local History Room. There also are copies on the regular shelving if you want to check the book out. Mr. Romig spent ten years compiling information about the origins of the names of villages, towns, townships and cities that are still here and those that are gone forever, like Singapore which had been located at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River at Lake Michigan.

Obviously dates Mr. Romig gives need to be verified for their accuracy. Kalamazoo became a village in 1843, not 1838, and a city in 1884.

As far as who is celebrating anniversaries this year, so far we have the Kalamazoo Mall which turns 50, the Kalamazoo Country Club which turns 100, the City of Kalamazoo which turns 125, and Kalamazoo Central High School which turns 150. Happy Anniversary to them and others who will be celebrating in 2009.

Book

A Fellowship in Learning

Fellowship-in-learning-160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=fellowship+in+learning+kalamazoo&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>Family Maps Have Arrived!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=18682&blogid=2186
We have a wonderful new series of map books in the history room - the Family Maps series by Gregory A. Boyd . Each book covers a single county, township by township and clearly displays the original land owners. Determining if your ancestor obtained a patent in a particular county has never been easier. Family]]>Beth T2009-04-17T11:46:10ZWe have a wonderful new series of map books in the history room - the Family Maps series by Gregory A. Boyd. Each book covers a single county, township by township and clearly displays the original land owners. Determining if your ancestor obtained a patent in a particular county has never been easier. Family Maps provide multiple indexes that verify the surnames for the county, which townships to find them in and specifically where within each township. “Big Picture” maps are also included that place each county in context within the state and within the region. Most of these map books are deluxe editions, which also include roads, waterways, towns, cemeteries and railroads. The history room currently has Family Maps for Kalamazoo, Allegan, Calhoun, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Cass, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties. But keep watch – more are on the way.

Another book on the subject is Minor League Baseball Towns of Michigan: Adrian to Ypsilanti(H 917.74 O414) which looks at minor league teams in the state in communities ranging from Adrian to Ypsilanti as the cover states. Kalamazoo has great photographs and information on the teams and the sites where you could find professional baseball in this community during the last half of the 19th and into the 20th centuries. You will be amazed.

Book

Baseball Fever

0472098268

]]>The Auto Men of Michiganhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=18358&blogid=2186
With all the recent changes in the automobile industry in Michigan, it’s a good time to look back on the people who were behind it. Billy Durant: Creator of General Motors by Lawrence Gustin (H 921 D949G) has been reissued, more than likely for GM’s centennial not because of its current situation. It tells the sto]]>Lynn H2009-04-03T09:19:55ZWith all the recent changes in the automobile industry in Michigan, it’s a good time to look back on the people who were behind it. Billy Durant: Creator of General Motors by Lawrence Gustin (H 921 D949G) has been reissued, more than likely for GM’s centennial not because of its current situation. It tells the story of the corporation’s flamboyant founder who pulled thirty auto-related firms together like Buick, DELCO, Fisher Body and Cadillac under one company. There are many other biographies of the auto men of Michigan including The Dodge Brothersby Charles Hyde (H 629.204 H993) and several on Henry Ford which can be found in the H 921 section.

Book

Billy Durant: creator of General Motors

9780472033027

]]>Have Any Yearbooks You Would Like to Donate to a Good Home?http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=18284&blogid=2186
The Local History Room is filled with a wide variety of books and some of the ones that get used the most by patrons are local high school and college yearbooks. They are a great resource for finding the names of classmates or that photograph of the favorite English teacher. Sometimes people come in to trip down memor]]>Lynn H2009-03-31T16:43:32ZThe Local History Room is filled with a wide variety of books and some of the ones that get used the most by patrons are local high school and college yearbooks. They are a great resource for finding the names of classmates or that photograph of the favorite English teacher. Sometimes people come in to trip down memory lane with family members. The Library has a nice collection but always needs to fill the gaps. If you would like to see what we have, please go to:

We always are interested in receiving additional copies. If you have any questions, please contact the Local History Room.

book

1946 Accolade

accolade-1946-240

]]>Little Books With a Lot of Informationhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=18140&blogid=2186
A number of years ago, the Michigan State University Press introduced a new series called Discovering the Peoples of Michigan which features books on the various ethnic groups in our state. Currently, there are twenty-seven different volumes on such groups as Germans , Irish , Latinos , Scots and African-Ame]]>Lynn H2009-03-26T11:01:54ZA number of years ago, the Michigan State University Press introduced a new series called Discovering the Peoples of Michigan which features books on the various ethnic groups in our state. Currently, there are twenty-seven different volumes on such groups as Germans, Irish, Latinos, Scots and African-Americans. The books are not that large, maybe 100 to 150 pages and include photographs. Some of the volumes also may have recipes and other information. The Local History Room has many of these books, shelved around the 320s. Also there are copies available in the general collection that can be checked out. MSU publishes new volumes every year, so if a book on your ethnic group has not come out yet, I’m sure it will come out in the near future.

Book

Scots in Michigan

0870136895

]]>But I Really Would Like That Book…http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=17868&blogid=2186
The Local History Room has a wonderful collection of books on all aspects of local , regional and state history along with many on genealogical topics. They cannot be checked out but can be used in the Local History Room. However, don’t despair; there always is the chance that the Library has a second copy in]]>Lynn H2009-03-18T12:06:43ZThe Local History Room has a wonderful collection of books on all aspects of local, regional and state history along with many on genealogical topics. They cannot be checked out but can be used in the Local History Room. However, don’t despair; there always is the chance that the Library has a second copy in the circulating stacks. Check the catalog and you can find out this information. An “H” in front of the Dewey Decimal number signifies that the book is in the Local History Room and cannot be borrowed. The same book without the “H” in front of the Dewey number is a book that can be checked out. More than likely you will find it on the second floor shelves.

Book

Michigan: A History of the Wolverine State

0802870554

]]>West Michigan from a New Anglehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=17744&blogid=2186
Being a lifelong West Michigan resident, I was anxious for the arrival of Marge Beaver’s new book Above West Michigan: Aerial Photography of West Michigan . I really enjoyed her first book, Above the North: Aerial Photography of Northern Michigan , and assumed that photos of familiar areas would make it even bet]]>Beth T2009-03-13T13:52:30ZBeing a lifelong West Michigan resident, I was anxious for the arrival of Marge Beaver’s new book Above West Michigan: Aerial Photography of West Michigan. I really enjoyed her first book, Above the North: Aerial Photography of Northern Michigan, and assumed that photos of familiar areas would make it even better. I was not disappointed. The photos in this book are amazing but to my surprise, not particularly familiar. She has captured the beauty of West Michigan in every season, from lakes to urban areas, in totally unexpected ways. I particularly liked the way she brought bright splashes of color into many of the photos using objects like boats, rooftops, and even blankets. Pick up Above West Michigan from the new books shelf in the local history room or the non-fiction shelves on the second floor and thumb through it. I guarantee you will have to sit down and examine every page.

Book

Above West Michigan

9780472116409

]]>Check Out These Beauties….http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=17546&blogid=2186
Okay, okay I know I said you should not judge a book by its cover but I have to say there is a 36-volume set on the Local History Room shelves that are very unique. Titled, Historical and Biographical Records (H 920 M 481), they are filled with entries on local organizations and individuals collected by Reverend R]]>Lynn H2009-03-11T07:59:37ZOkay, okay I know I said you should not judge a book by its cover but I have to say there is a 36-volume set on the Local History Room shelves that are very unique. Titled, Historical and Biographical Records (H 920 M 481), they are filled with entries on local organizations and individuals collected by Reverend Robert E. Meader, a Methodist minister. He stressed in an information sheet found in Volume One about those individuals included that, “Some of them are considered prominent and some consider themselves humble.” Most of these people lived in the Kalamazoo area during the first half of the Twentieth Century and some of the entries were written by family members themselves. The photographs and typed sheets were bound in “…the most beautiful, full red Russia leather binders with double metal hinges and metal back and gold tracing with lettering,” as Reverend Meader described it.

The volumes are arranged in alphabetical order but you also can access them if you go to www.kpl.gov and click on “Catalog” then click on “Local Information” and then “All Local Databases” which will bring up a search box. To search this way you will have to have a name or organization you want to find. Also, the books are on microfilm if you would like to view them that way.

If you don’t have anyone particular you need to find, just go to the shelf and choose a volume to look at and be introduced to some of the people who lived in Kalamazoo not that long ago.

Book

Meader Collection

Historic-records-160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=meader+robert{AU}&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>A Michigan Classichttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=17408&blogid=2186
A few miles this side of Ann Arbor is a town of 5000 called Chelsea. While many may not have heard of the place, they almost certainly have seen (and tasted) the brand produced there: JIFFY . The Chelsea Milling Company, www.jiffymix.com , today produces over 1.6 million boxes of biscuit and cake mixes every day. Th]]>David D.2009-03-05T14:39:04ZA few miles this side of Ann Arbor is a town of 5000 called Chelsea. While many may not have heard of the place, they almost certainly have seen (and tasted) the brand produced there: JIFFY. The Chelsea Milling Company, www.jiffymix.com, today produces over 1.6 million boxes of biscuit and cake mixes every day. This book, by Ann Arbor author Cynthia Furlong Reynolds, is a very high-quality history of the company, its products, and the family that founded it and continues to run it. The inviting cover leads one into the book itself, where the company story includes many photos of and interviews with family and longtime employees. As one devoted to all things Michigan, I love the fact that a commodity used by my mother, and my grandmother before her, is made right here in my beloved home state.

book

0762741112

]]>The State Hospital Water Towerhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=16684&blogid=2186
What is more familiar and yet more mysterious to Kalamazoo residents than the medieval looking water tower on the grounds of the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital? KPL recently solved the mystery of the Water Tower with a program in the “This Old Building” series.
Sharon Ferraro, the city’s historic preservation coo]]>Beth T2009-02-17T15:57:31ZWhat is more familiar and yet more mysterious to Kalamazoo residents than the medieval looking water tower on the grounds of the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital? KPL recently solved the mystery of the Water Tower with a program in the “This Old Building” series.

Sharon Ferraro, the city’s historic preservation coordinator, was the presenter. She discussed the history of the tower, what has been happening with it recently, and its possible future. The audience was particularly thrilled with the slide show which took them on a virtual tour around, inside, and on top of the tower.

An interview with Sharon Ferraro, followed by the complete presentation.

Book

State Hospital Water Tower

watertower2-160

http://www.kpl.gov/local-history/health/kph-water-tower.aspx]]>Once Upon an Islehttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=16604&blogid=2186
Do you ever wonder what it would have been like to live on Isle Royale when the fishing industry thrived? My new favorite local history book is Once Upon an Isle , written and illustrated by Howard Sivertson , a former resident of Isle Royale. The book feels like a children’s picture book with its many beautiful]]>CS2009-02-13T15:18:54ZDo you ever wonder what it would have been like to live on Isle Royale when the fishing industry thrived? My new favorite local history book is Once Upon an Isle, written and illustrated by Howard Sivertson, a former resident of Isle Royale. The book feels like a children’s picture book with its many beautiful illustrations but it contains very detailed sketches of life in a fishing village on Isle Royale. Sivertson’s book tells of winters spent in Minnesota with his family studying his schoolwork, helping to mend fishing nets and making other preparations for the annual migration back to Isle Royale in the spring. He also recalls laundry day, the Fourth of July celebration and other aspects of daily life spent on the island. Can you imagine having to pack up everything you own, including all of your appliances, for the twice a year journey across the water between Minnesota and Isle Royale? It certainly was a different way of life than the ones most of us live now.

Book

Once Upon an Isle

0962436933

]]>During Black History Month Check Outhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=16416&blogid=2186
February traditionally is Black History month and always a good opportunity to highlight some of the resources out there that provide information about local African-American history. One such source, found on the shelf in the Local History Room is titled, Negroes in Michigan History although its real title is Mi]]>Lynn H2009-02-06T09:21:12ZFebruary traditionally is Black History month and always a good opportunity to highlight some of the resources out there that provide information about local African-American history. One such source, found on the shelf in the Local History Room is titled, Negroes in Michigan History although its real title is Michigan Manual of Freedmen’s Progress (325.26 F 85g).

In the summer of 1915, a celebration was held in Chicago to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 13th amendment which abolished slavery. The State of Michigan dedicated $5,000 for an exhibit during the festivities in Chicago which would highlight contributions African-Americans in Michigan had made in several different fields including science, art and manufacturing.

A statewide committee, composed of fifty-seven people, also put together a manual which covered the history and contributions of African-American residents in Michigan. This book, reprinted in 1968, contains a variety of information including brief biographical sketches of individuals and organizations in the state, a list of soldiers who fought in the Civil War, and even home and property owners. The book also is peppered with many black and white photographs, a name index and a list of materials that were in Michigan’s exhibit.

Book

The Official Guide to Ancestry.com

9781593313197

]]>A Visit to the Place of My Nativityhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=16246&blogid=2186
One of the privileges a library worker has is seeing the new books as they come in. This book of anecdotes about Bronson Methodist Hospital, by retired employee Dick Vander Molen, caught my eye recently. When I browsed through it I discovered an amusing story about the pediatrician who tended to me in the late 1950s a]]>David D.2009-01-29T08:52:22ZOne of the privileges a library worker has is seeing the new books as they come in. This book of anecdotes about Bronson Methodist Hospital, by retired employee Dick Vander Molen, caught my eye recently. When I browsed through it I discovered an amusing story about the pediatrician who tended to me in the late 1950s and early 1960s. I took a copy to my dad to show him this story and he ended up wanting to read the whole book, which he did, saying he enjoyed the stories about many local people, some of whom are his acquaintances. Anyone interested in the history of Bronson or in the people who worked there in past years will enjoy this collection.

Book

The Bronson I Knew

0976341328

]]>Don’t judge a book by its coverhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=16212&blogid=2186
Ever hear that expression? Well it’s very appropriate when you look at the 40-volume set in the Local History Room called the Michigan Pioneer Collections (H 977.4 M 62). Bound in black with gold lettering, they don’t look all that impressive, but open them up and you will find them chock full of interesting infor]]>Lynn H2009-01-28T08:31:16ZEver hear that expression? Well it’s very appropriate when you look at the 40-volume set in the Local History Room called the Michigan Pioneer Collections (H 977.4 M 62). Bound in black with gold lettering, they don’t look all that impressive, but open them up and you will find them chock full of interesting information about life in Michigan during the 18th and 19th centuries. The books were a product of the Michigan Pioneer and Historical Society whose one goal was to collect information and stories from the people who settled in Michigan in between the 1830s and 1850s. Fortunately, there are two indexes which are so valuable especially if there is a certain subject you are looking for in these books. These are at the top of my list when I am doing research. I once found some great information about the construction of Kalamazoo County’s first courthouse.

You don’t have to have a specific topic to research. Just open them up and start reading. Sue Husband who worked at the Archives and Regional History Collections at Western Michigan University was reading these books one volume at a time. I don’t know if she ever finished them but I admired her for her persistence.

You never know what you can find in this resource. Once I was researching baseball in Kalamazoo and found a great deal of information in these cards going all the way back to the 1850s when the first hardball games were played in Bronson Park. The village council was concerned most about the damage this sport might do to the trees.

]]>Cemetery Strollinghttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15910&blogid=2186
I know it may seem a little weird, but one of my favorite pastimes is wandering around old cemeteries. They provide a wonderful park-like atmosphere and are filled with history and art. Finding small old cemeteries can be challenging but years ago the Library of Michigan published a wonderful resource, the Michiga]]>Beth T2009-01-13T10:08:41ZI know it may seem a little weird, but one of my favorite pastimes is wandering around old cemeteries. They provide a wonderful park-like atmosphere and are filled with history and art. Finding small old cemeteries can be challenging but years ago the Library of Michigan published a wonderful resource, the Michigan Cemetery Atlas, for locating cemeteries all over the state. The maps are broken down by county, making both large and small cemeteries easily located and identified. Its companion volume, the Michigan Cemetery Source Book, lists tombstone transcriptions that are held at the Library of Michigan for many of these cemeteries.

Unfortunately, cemetery wandering is a seasonal activity so at this time of year I have to be content with virtual strolls. Two sites that provide images of tombstones in Kalamazoo area cemeteries are Kalamazoo County Cemeteries on the Web and the Cemeteries section of KalamazooGenealogy.org. Both sites contain burial/tombstone information for thousands of people and many are accompanied by images of the stones. These sites are wonderful resources for genealogists, as well as taphophiles, and are growing all the time. Links to these and other great sites for genealogists can be found on our Genealogy Topic Guide.

These maps are some of my favorite resources. They are the Sanborn Insurance Maps which were produced by the Sanborn Map Company originally for fire departments so that they could know the composition of the buildings signified by different colors. They also were used by insurance companies. As a researcher, they are a great resource to illustrate the history of a building and all the changes it went through. The two massive volumes on the top of the shelf are from 1908 and 1932. In addition, there is a two-volume set from the 1950s in that area. There also are additional maps on microfilm dating all the way back to 1887, the first map for the city.

Take a look at these maps. Not only are they fun to look at, you never know what you will learn.

Then go to the far right of that page and click on “Local Information”

This brings up six different categories, you want “Local Photographs”

Now you can search for a whole host of images typing in general search words like “education” or specific search words like “Kalamazoo Public Schools.” Once you get a list, you will notice there is a small icon in the lower right hand corner for each entry. Click on that and the image will appear. If you would like to make the image larger, just click on it. This also includes some images from the Kalamazoo Valley Museum and the Western Michigan University Archives and Regional History Collection.

Take a look at this year’s list and those which made previous lists at www.michigan.gov/notablebooks. Hopefully, you will be tempted to pick a few of them up to read many of which are both in the local history room and in the general circulating collection.

Book

Asylum for the Insane: A History of the Kalamazoo State Hospital

9781933926049

]]>Neighborhood Explorationhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15620&blogid=2186
How long have you lived in Kalamazoo and in your neighborhood? Who owned your home prior to your purchase? Was the neighborhood a former cornfield, an apple orchard, or an Indian encampment? The Local History Room has answers to all these questions and more. For a long time, files have been kept and culled from new]]>Joanna L2008-12-29T16:11:10ZHow long have you lived in Kalamazoo and in your neighborhood? Who owned your home prior to your purchase? Was the neighborhood a former cornfield, an apple orchard, or an Indian encampment? The Local History Room has answers to all these questions and more. For a long time, files have been kept and culled from newspapers and other sources about our city. There have been books written about the neighborhoods and individual houses. The Local History web site has a listing of homes and their history. Neighborhood associations and local historians have added to the wealth of knowledge. Curious? This just might be the place for you.

Book

Kalamazoo Lost and Found

kalamazoo_lostfound_160

http://www.catalog.kpl.gov/uhtbin/cgisirsi/x/0/0/5?searchdata1=kalamazoo+lost+found&library=BRANCHES&language=ANY&format=ANY&item_type=ANY&location=ANY&match_on=KEYWORD&item_1cat=ANY&item_2cat=ANY&sort_by=-PBYR]]>The Season for Genealogyhttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15546&blogid=2186
The weather has turned cold and snowy and we are fast approaching that much anticipated time of year: genealogy season. Winter is a wonderful time to begin work on the family history you have wanted to compile or to dig out all that research you’ve already done so you can dive back in with fresh perspective. The staff]]>Beth T2008-12-18T14:47:53ZThe weather has turned cold and snowy and we are fast approaching that much anticipated time of year: genealogy season. Winter is a wonderful time to begin work on the family history you have wanted to compile or to dig out all that research you’ve already done so you can dive back in with fresh perspective. The staff of the local history room is ready to help, whether you are a beginning genealogist or a pro. We offer access to wonderful databases for genealogical research like Ancestry Library Edition, HeritageQuest, New England Ancestors, and Footnote. The history room’s collection contains more than 1000 book titles and 16 periodicals devoted to genealogy, as well as dozens of how-to books that are also available for check out from our circulating collection. With so many great resources available you can’t help but get into the spirit of the season.

Book

Tracing your family history

0762105739

]]>Local History Authors Abound at Holiday Hophttp://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15340&blogid=2186
On December 5th dozens of local authors, artists and musicians sold and signed their work at the library during the downtown Art Hop. This was a great opportunity for history buffs to find out about materials that are available on their favorite local subjects. For example, the State Hospital has long been a fascinati]]>Beth T2008-12-12T15:21:54ZOn December 5th dozens of local authors, artists and musicians sold and signed their work at the library during the downtown Art Hop. This was a great opportunity for history buffs to find out about materials that are available on their favorite local subjects. For example, the State Hospital has long been a fascination of Kalamazoo residents. Dr. William Decker was here signing his 2009 Michigan Notable Book on the hospital, Asylum for the Insane: A History of the Kalamazoo State Hospital. Retired KPL librarian, Margean Gladysz, offered her book A Spy on the Bus: Memoir of a Company Rat, based on letters she wrote to her family in Galesburg while she was traveling the country as a Greyhound company spy in the late 1940s. Of course, with all of Kalamazoo’s wonderful historic architecture, no Holiday Hop would have been complete without Lynn Houghton and Pam O’Connor, authors of Kalamazoo Lost and Found. These are just a few of the Holiday Hop authors whose books relate to our local history. But don’t worry if you missed it. You just need to visit the local history room to see the books--and mark your calendar for next years Holiday Hop!

Book

Holiday Hop authors in the history room

holiday-hop-160

]]>Footnote at KPL!http://kpl.gov/local-history/blog/Default.aspx?id=15262&blogid=2186
Imagine being able to view millions of historical documents never before available on the Internet. Well, now you can at KPL with Footnote.com , our newest subscription database . Footnote has partnered with the National Archives to provide access to millions of items from their collection. But that’s just the beg]]>Beth T2008-12-09T12:20:53ZImagine being able to view millions of historical documents never before available on the Internet. Well, now you can at KPL with Footnote.com, our newest subscription database. Footnote has partnered with the National Archives to provide access to millions of items from their collection. But that’s just the beginning. There are also scanned images of assorted city directories, newspapers, state and city records, and many other interesting items useful to genealogists and other historical researchers. Footnote also allows members to contribute to the site through annotation of existing pages or by creating their own pages and uploading photos, scans, or even videos. With more than 47 million documents already online and an average of 2 million more being added each month, Footnote is an amazing resource. It can be accessed with full privileges for viewing and printing premium documents at the central library and all KPL branches.